The Government is considering extending the office of the Children's Commissioner to monitor complaints to Child, Youth and Family.
A report by the former Police Commissioner, Howard Broad, has evaluated CYF's complaints process and recommends greater independent monitoring.
Social Development Minister Paula Bennett says she has asked officials to investigate expanding the capability of the Children's Commissioner to take on that role.
She says it is pragmatic to strengthen the resources that are already available outside CYF.
The report says CYF social workers carry out difficult work, and while most do the job well social work practices could be better.
