The Department of Communities is highlighting the safety of the State’s children and the responsibility of organisations to ensure it is a priority during National Children’s Week that runs until Sunday (30 October).
In a statement, the Department said Children’s Week was observed annually across Australia and was dedicated to celebrating children and promoting the Rights of the Child as proclaimed by the United Nations in 1954.
It acknowledged the Meerilinga Children and Community Foundation, the convener of Children’s Week in WA since 1985, the first year it was celebrated in Australia.
“This year, the Department is providing $15,000 in funding to help administer the Children’s Week 2022 Community Grant Program which provides small grants for not-for-profit organisations, community groups and Local Governments to hold Children’s Week events in regional and remote WA,” the Department said.
“Children’s Week coincides with the Child Safe Organisations campaign, which raises awareness and support for organisations that promote children’s wellbeing and prevent harm to young people.”
Minister for Community Services and Child Protection, Simone McGurk said Children’s Week championed the rights for all children to be able to enjoy a full, happy and safe childhood.
“The State Government is committed to supporting the development of child safe organisations. Organisations that have interactions with children should be safe and friendly for young people,” Ms McGurk said.
“Board and committee members, chief executives, directors, and managers are responsible for creating and maintaining a culture that ensures the prevention of child abuse,” she said.
She said leaders must ensure that the safety and wellbeing of children and young people is at the forefront of their organisations’ culture, activities and services.
