When it comes to wellbeing, it takes a village – Tas launches new strategy for children

Tasmania’s first strategy for Child and Youth Wellbeing, covering children and young people from birth to 25 years, was launched recently by Premier Peter Gutwein. 

It takes a Tasmanian Village used feedback and consultation from children and young people, parents, carers and organisations, along with contributed thoughts, experiences and knowledge to develop a strategy which is both inclusive and authentic. 

The feedback from Tasmanian children and young people in particular has provided the inspiration for the title of the Strategy, the overarching vision that “children and young people in Tasmania have what they need to grow and thrive”, and a set of ten principles that will guide the Strategy’s implementation.

“My Government’s vision is for a Tasmania, that no matter where you live, your background or your circumstances, opportunities will be there and if you want to grasp those opportunities, a better life will be within your reach. The Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy is another step toward that vision,” the Premier said.

Parents, carers, and families, he continued, are also a vital part of children’s overall wellbeing. 

“Strong families help to achieve child and youth wellbeing, which is why supporting Tasmanian families is a top priority for my Government.” 

Through the It Takes a Tasmanian Village Strategy, the Tasmanian Government is committing over $100 million across four years to improve the wellbeing of Tasmania’s children and young people, with an additional $45.2 million to fully fund a “fundamental shift” in the delivery of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.

The Strategy builds on many existing government initiatives that support parents, families and communities and provides new investments to strengthen the important role that parents and caregivers provide, especially in the critical early years from pregnancy to two years old. 

More information about the Strategy is available here.