Dear Australia project offers children a chance to record their voices for prosperity

Australian early childhood education and care (ECEC) services are encouraged to participate in a new project being supported by Australia Post and the National Archives of Australia, which aims to record the voices of all Australians, including children and young people, as the world works through the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“We know that the last few months have had an extraordinary impact on families, communities and our way of life. There have been highs and lows, moments of joy and learnings for all of us,” an Australia Post spokesperson said.

As a result of this momentous time in history, Australia Post believes it is important to record the thoughts of those experiencing significant change. To support the recording of this thinking, Australia Post has created a national letterbox where, from now until 18 August, anyone participating can write a letter to share their experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The letters will then be curated by the National Archives, with eligible letters being kept for future generations, allowing all Australians to “record their impressions of this remarkable time”.

Letters of all types are encouraged, and could be messages of hope, stories of community spirit, descriptions of how life has changed as a result of the pandemic, or pictures drawn by children. For those who are living with a disability and require an alternative format through which to submit their letters, Australia Post can be contacted by email ([email protected]) or the National Relay Service to discuss alternatives. 

Mail should be placed in a stamped envelope and addressed as follows: 

Dear Australia

Locked Bag

Australia 9999

Letters can be posted in any red street posting box or given to your local Post Office.