Working together to build stronger communities to protect our children

On 4-10 September this year Australia once again recognises National Child Protection Week. This year’s theme is ‘Stronger Communities, Safer Children’ focusing on the fact that communities matter and have a huge part to play in protecting and supporting children.

“Approximately 40,000 Australian children are abused or neglected each year, which demonstrates the need to do more. National Child Protection Week is a good opportunity to raise awareness of these issues and discuss what we can all do to increase the safety of our children”, Assistant Minister for Social Services and Multicultural Affairs, Senator Zed Seselja said.

“Governments across Australia, together with the community sector, are implementing the National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children and the new strategies set out in the Third Action Plan 2015 – 2018, which is focused on prevention and early intervention. We want children to get the best possible start in life and this is what we are all working towards.”

A paper released today by the Australian Institute of Family Studies, in partnership with NAPCAN, brings together existing research that demonstrates building stronger communities is fundamental to preventing child abuse and neglect.

Senator Seselja said the Government is investing over $255 million per year to provide integrated services for families as part of the Families and Children Activity, such as Communities for Children Facilitating Partners and other Children and Parenting Support services.

“The collaboration and integration of local services will improve child, youth, adult and family wellbeing and help build more cohesive communities,” said Senator Seselja.

National Child Protection Week is an opportunity for all Australians–as community members, extended family members, neighbours, employers, employees, parents, carers or through other roles–to focus on how we can play a part in promoting the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.

“It can be as simple as being kind to parents and children, listening to the needs of children, or standing up for someone in need.” Senator Seselja concluded.

More information about National Child Protection Week and how local communities can play a role is available at napcan.org.au.