By NATALIE GALLENTI
MELTON’S youngest residents may soon have greater input within the community after the council, together with several project partners, developed an innovative resource for consulting with children.
The Engaging Children in Decision Making Guide is the result of a collaboration between Melton City Council, the City of Ballarat, Brimbank City Council, Maribyrnong City Council, Wyndham City Council, the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, and Kurunjang Primary School.
The guide, which was officially launched at Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre last week, provides examples of international and national best practice and has been designed for use by organisations and individuals that recognise the right of children to participate in their community as active citizens.
Examples of consultation methods when referring with children include face-to-face discussions, social media, storytelling activities, surveys, art, posters and interactive exercises.
Mayor Kathy Majdlik said the council is passionate about embedding the voices of children in its decision making processes.
“It’s important to recognise children as active citizens in the community and not just think of them as future adults. We want to hear the voices of children, to learn from them and make sure that services, programs and places that children use are designed to meet their needs,” Cr Majdlik said.
“The guide is a fantastic resource for organisations seeking to engage children in an informed and ethical way and helps to give children a voice so that they can be heard and supported in our communities.”
