Reports outline views of Aboriginal children and young people
A report tabled in the WA Parliament today by the acting Commissioner for Children and Young People Jenni Perkins showcases the views of Aboriginal children and young people, the great contribution they are making to their families and communities, and the enormous potential they possess.
“Listen to Us”: Using the views of WA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people to improve policy and service delivery is based on a consultation involving 1,271 Aboriginal children and young people from across the State.
Acting Commissioner Jenni Perkins said the report provides a strong and compelling voice for making practical changes to the way agencies support Aboriginal children and young people’s healthy development and wellbeing.
“Our aim in tabling this report is to bring the voices of Aboriginal children and young people direct to the Western Australian Parliament and the broader community,” Ms Perkins said.
“The Aboriginal children and young people who took part in this consultation provided important insight into the factors that influence their lives, including their views on family and community, education, culture, recreation and sport, and racism and reconciliation,” Ms Perkins said.
“As well as responding directly to their views in this report, it is imperative that agencies work together in true partnership with Aboriginal children and young people and the community to listen, learn and act on their valuable knowledge and insights about what impacts their lives.”
The Commissioner released two other publications from the consultation:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Young People Speak Out – a community report that focuses on the views of the children who took part in the consultation.
- This is Me: Aboriginal young people’s stories – 12 Aboriginal children and young people tell their stories, in their own voice, about their lives and hopes for the future.
These reports are available at the Consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people web page.