Child friendly community delivers first profile

A new survey of parents and children, undertaken by The Child Friendly Alice initiative has found that the top priorities for children living in the centre of Australia include being safe and free, having access to education, equal opportunities for employment, and a society free from racism and crime.

Sarah Brittle, from the Child Friendly Alice Initiative said the consultation process found that adults and children from across the community share many of the same aspirations for essential cornerstone elements of life, like a good education, strong families, equal opportunities, employment, and meaningful activities for young people. 

“They share the same concerns about crime, racism, and anti social behaviours” she said, adding “they have a desire to see better educational opportunities, and, in particular, cultural opportunities”. 

1,075 people, including 470 young people and 605 adults, shared their views on how children and families could better be supported in the region. A group of organisations then came together, using the consultations and key statistical data to deliver the profile. 

The Community Profile is a snapshot in time of the hopes and aspirations of children and families in Alice Springs that includes local population level data, which highlights the strengths and challenges in the community. It is a catalyst for future conversations on the top areas for change.

“This is just the beginning. The Child Friendly Alice initiative will help bring the community, government and agencies together to work on a local action plan. In the coming months, this will start with community forums to understand what should be the first area we address,” Ms Brittle said. 

The initiative “puts the community in the driver’s seat” Ms Brittle noted, saying it provides a way forward to propose solutions to complex social issues. 

Ultimately, she said, The Child Friendly Alice initiative’s vision is for every child in Alice Springs to have the best possible start in life and to grow up healthy and strong. 

Child Friendly Alice is a community collaboration facilitated by:

• Strong Kids Strong Centre – Red Cross;
• Communities for Children – Anglicare NT;
• Connected Beginnings; and
• Larapinta Child and Family Centre – NT Department of Education.