Act for Children alliance calls for Cabinet Minister to represent Australian children

A new national alliance has urged Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to appoint a Cabinet level Minister for Children, arguing that children remain without direct representation in the highest levels of government decision making.

The call follows Labor’s re election and its stated commitment to a country “where no one is held back or left behind.” The Act for Children alliance, a coalition of 47 organisations across the child health, education, legal and social service sectors, says that promise must start with children, particularly those experiencing disadvantage.

Sector voices seek national coordination

While issues affecting children are currently spread across multiple portfolios, including education, health and social services, the alliance argues that a dedicated Minister for Children is needed to drive a coordinated, whole of government approach.

The call comes as the Albanese Government begins its second term and prepares to implement a suite of major early years reforms. These include the Three Day Guarantee for subsidised early learning, increased investment in infrastructure, and support for educator wages.

“With reforms underway and growing recognition of the early years as critical to national wellbeing, advocates say leadership at the Cabinet level is essential to maintain focus and accountability,” the alliance said in a statement.

What a Cabinet Minister for Children would do

According to the open letter, a Minister for Children would:

• Represent the rights and wellbeing of children across all government portfolios
• Lead a coordinated strategy to improve outcomes in health, education and safety
• Ensure alignment between federal, state and community level supports for children

The group says that while Australia has strong institutions focused on child safety and early education, siloed policies and inconsistent investment are limiting the impact of reforms, especially for the most vulnerable.

A national priority with lasting impact

“Decades of evidence show the economic and social value of investing in children. A Cabinet Minister would help build a stronger, fairer and more resilient Australia by ensuring decisions made today reflect the needs of future generations,” the statement read.

Among the signatories are several organisations with long standing involvement in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector, who argue that better outcomes for children require national coordination and clear accountability.

For more information about the Act for Children campaign visit www.actforchildren.net.