The Colonial Secretary’s Office in the Crown Colony of Western Australia was established in 1828. It was responsible for the welfare of children in Western Australia, through the position of the Superintendent of Relief and Inspector of Charitable Institutions. It was also responsible for healthcare in Western Australia, including that of children and young people in the State’s orphanages, hospitals and mental health instiutions, through the position of Colonial Surgeon. In 1890, the Colonial Secretary’s Office continued in the Colony of Western Australia.