National Children’s Week 2020

National Children’s Week begins 24 October and across the country it’s important that we celebrate the rights of children and young people to have a safe childhood and the opportunity to interact with others safely. 

Assistant Minister for Community Housing, Homelessness and Community Services, Luke Howarth, said the national event serves as an important reminder that all children have the opportunity to access safe and secure housing. 

“The Morrison Government is committed to providing programs and support to vulnerable young people and their families with a strong focus on early intervention and prevention,” Assistant Minister Howarth said.

“We are supporting young people facing homelessness through initiatives such as the $118 million Reconnect program. 

“This program helps to break the cycle of homelessness by connecting young people with their families, education and training, employment and their community.”

The Government also provides around $1.6 billion in 2020–21 to improve housing and homelessness outcomes with the states and territories under the National Housing and Homelessness Agreement. 

This includes around $129 million in dedicated homelessness funding which states, and territories are required to match. Under the Agreement children and young people, as well as women and children escaping family and domestic violence, are prioritised within state and territory homelessness strategies. 

The Morrison Government also recently announced 700 safe places for women and children escaping domestic violence will be built across the country under the $60 million Safe Places program.

To find out more or get involved visit www.childrensweek.org.au