While I will agree that consultation should have taken place and some of the steps taken (if accurately reported) are a bit over the top, I would be seriously concerned if all parties did not take all necessary steps to safeguard children from sexual predators.
Just a wee byline here: When we speak of children, here in Canada "Our Children" becomes the description of choice.
Yet, when those children are on reserves, "Aboriginal Children" becomes the most accepted description. A subconscious distancing.
With this in mind, let me say to our Australian friends that they are your children, regardless of their location or ethnicity.
Perhaps if Mr Howard could do the same, he would find more appropriate ways to prevent the exploitation of Australian children.