A 22-year-old woman has been remanded in custody after being charged over the alleged assault of her child at Coober Pedy on the weekend.

Police were called to a domestic disturbance just before midday on Saturday 7 November after witnesses reported that a child had been assaulted.

The child was located a short time later, safe and in the care of relatives, and received medical treatment for minor injuries.

Police said immediate concerns for the child’s welfare prompted an urgent notification to the Department for Child Protection. The two agencies then worked together to support the child and ensure their ongoing safety and wellbeing.

Following investigations, police arrested the woman on Sunday 8 November and charged her with aggravated assault, choking and threats to endanger life.

She did not apply for bail and appeared in the Coober Pedy Magistrates Court on Monday 9 November, where she was remanded in custody.

Sergeant David Finlayson, of Coober Pedy Police, said the response demonstrated the importance of cooperation between police and child protection authorities.

“Protecting vulnerable children requires a coordinated response, and this matter demonstrates the value of the strong working relationship between SAPOL and the Department for Child Protection,” he said.

“From the initial police response through to the ongoing welfare arrangements for the child, both agencies worked together to ensure the child’s wellbeing remained the priority.”

Sergeant Finlayson also thanked witnesses who contacted police and assisted investigators.

“The quick actions of witnesses who contacted police and provided information were instrumental in ensuring a prompt response and progressing the investigation.”

Police urge anyone who witnesses violence, abuse or neglect involving a child to call 131 444, or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.

Suspected child abuse or neglect can also be reported to South Australia’s Child Abuse Report Line on 13 14 78*, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.