About Us
Children's Advocacy Network is committed to safeguarding and promoting the overall health and well-being of children by influencing policies and legislation that protect and promote children's best interests. We work to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow in a safe and supportive environment.
Mission - Children's Advocacy Network
Our Mission
Children's Advocacy Network is committed to safeguarding and promoting the overall health and well-being of children by influencing policies and legislation that protect and promote children's best interests. We work to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow in a safe and supportive environment.
At Children's Advocacy Network, we envision an Australia where every child can live safely and reach their fullest potential. We focus on safeguarding children and promoting their well-being by advocating for transformative policies, educating communities, and mobilising support to foster environments where children from all backgrounds are nurtured and protected.
Our mission extends beyond immediate solutions, aiming for long-term societal changes that safeguard the health and well-being of children.
Our Vision
A future where all children in Australia live in safety and optimum health, with adequate and appropriate support systems in place to enable them to reach their full potential.
Who We Help / Which children need our help?
At Children's Advocacy Network, we advocate for the health and well-being of all children across Australia. We acknowledge that certain communities and backgrounds may face greater challenges in achieving optimal health and well-being outcomes. Our efforts are focused on advocating for better policies and laws, raising awareness, and campaigning for rights and resources wherever need is in demand. Here are some of the groups we help and how we make a difference:
Children Who Are Victims of Family and Sexual Violence
Children exposed to family and sexual violence face profound emotional, psychological, and physical impacts. They require specific protective measures and support systems to ensure their safety and recovery.
At Children's Advocacy Network, we advocate vigorously for stronger legal protections and more comprehensive support services for these vulnerable children. We work to influence policy to ensure that:
- Immediate and Long-term Safety is prioritised through enhanced protective laws and quicker intervention strategies.
- Trauma-Informed Care is accessible, which includes counselling and mental health services specifically designed for children who have experienced violence.
- Education and Awareness Programs are widespread, helping to teach children about safe relationships and providing them with knowledge on how to seek help.
- Support for Families and Caregivers to create stable, violence-free environments for children to heal and thrive.
- Collaborative Efforts with law enforcement, healthcare providers, and educational institutions to ensure a comprehensive, supportive network is in place for these children.
By focusing on these areas, Children's Advocacy Network seeks not only to protect children from immediate harm but also to foster a societal shift that eradicates the root causes of family and sexual violence, securing a safer future for all children.
Youth and Families in Regional Areas
We support children, young people, and families living in regional and remote communities who may face additional barriers when seeking help. Distance, limited services, and isolation can make it harder to access the support they need—especially in times of crisis.
We help bridge that gap by providing guidance, information, and referrals to appropriate legal, health, education, and social services. Whether it's assistance with school-related concerns, navigating child protection systems, responding to youth justice involvement, or accessing mental health support, we’re here to help. Our goal is to ensure regional families aren’t left behind when it comes to safety, support, and justice.
Children in Foster Care or Out-of-Home Care
These children frequently face instability, emotional and psychological challenges, and disruptions.
We advocate for policies that ensure safety and stability, and promote emotional and psychological support services.
At Children's Advocacy Network, our mission is to champion the needs of these children, ensuring that every child in Australia has the opportunity to grow in a safe and supportive environment. Through targeted advocacy and comprehensive support, we aim to bring about lasting change that will pave the way for a brighter future.
Youth in the Criminal Justice System
We support children, young people, and families caught up in the criminal justice system—whether they are facing charges, attending court, or impacted by a loved one’s incarceration. We help them navigate a complex and often overwhelming process by providing guidance, practical support, and referrals to trusted legal and social services.
Referrals to Legal and Support Services
We connect families with appropriate legal help, mental health care, and other support services tailored to their individual circumstances. Our aim is to reduce stress and ensure they have access to the right advice and care.
Support for Victims of Crime
We also assist children and families who are victims of crime, linking them with trauma-informed legal professionals, counseling services, and broader support networks to help them feel safe, supported, and empowered to move forward.
Girls
Girls often experience sex-based disparities in opportunities and safety, especially in education, healthcare, and sexual and male violence.
Our advocacy focuses on ensuring equal opportunities for girls in all aspects of their lives, promoting policies that safeguard against discrimination, violence/sexual violence, and enhancing their health and well-being through targeted initiatives.
LGB Youth
LGB youth face significant challenges, including discrimination, mental health disparities, and lack of supportive resources.
We strive for the implementation of inclusive education policies, support LGB affirming programs, and campaign for comprehensive mental health services.
Transgender Youth and Mental Healthcare
Transgender adolescents struggle with significant mental health issues, affecting them and their families who often struggle with knowing how best to support them.
We advocate for mental healthcare policies that recognise and provide for the specific mental health needs of transgender youth.
Our Work - Children's Advocacy Network
Policy Advocacy
We actively engage with policymakers to advocate for legislative changes that protect children from abuse and neglect, and ensure their right to health and well-being is upheld. We engage with government bodies to advocate for the protection and rights of children. Our work includes presenting evidence-based policies, participating in legislative reviews, and ensuring that child safety and health are prioritised in public agendas.
Campaigns
Our campaigns raise public awareness and target specific issues affecting children's safety, health, and wellbeing. From digital safety to physical health, we ensure that the voices of the vulnerable are heard and acted upon.
Community Engagement
Children's Advocacy Network works within communities to educate and empower individuals and organisations to actively participate in upholding children's health and safeguarding youth.
Research and Insights - Publications
Explore research papers, policy briefs, and educational materials that provide insight into child safeguarding and health issues, and our advocacy efforts.
Blog
Stay updated with our latest thoughts, analyses, and updates on child safeguarding issues and our ongoing projects.
Get involved - Children's Advocacy Network
Volunteer
Whether it's helping with community events, contributing to our campaigns, or providing administrative support, our volunteers are crucial to our mission. Join our team of dedicated volunteers who are the backbone of our outreach and advocacy efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children.
Donate
Every contribution helps us continue our vital work. Your donations expand our reach to protect more and fund essential programs and outreach efforts that protect children and support families.
Partnerships
Learn how your organisation can partner with us to make a larger impact in the lives of children.
News and Events
Stay informed about Children's Advocacy Network’s latest news and upcoming events. Join us at workshops, webinars, and advocacy events to get involved and support our cause. Stay up-to-date with Children's Advocacy Network’s activities, learn about our latest campaigns, and find out how you can participate in our events designed to raise awareness and foster community involvement in child safety, health, and wellbeing.
Contact Us
We would love to hear from you! Reach out to us for more information, to request resources, or to discuss how you can support our cause. We are here to help and welcome your engagement in our mission to protect Australia's children.