The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to giving young Tasmanians the best start in life.
This morning, I was pleased to speak at the official opening of the Biannual Forum held by the Tasmanian Branch of Early Childhood Australia in Hobart.
The day-long forum is an important opportunity for Tasmanian early childhood educators for professional development and reflection, with local and interstate speakers giving presentations.
We all know, and research and studies and demonstrate it too, that investment, the right interventions and care in the early years of a child’s life are pivotal in shaping and influencing stronger health, social and economic outcomes later in life.
It was great to see so many people who are passionate about helping young children through ensuring quality, social justice and equity in all issues relating to education and care, and who are just as committed to their own professional development.
The theme of this year’s forum – “The Rights of the Child” – recognises that it has been 25 years since the adoption of the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child.
We know there is much more to be done to improve the participation of children in society and to protect the rights of children.
That’s why the Liberal Government is moving to acknowledge the rights of children in new legislation governing the role and functions of the Commissioner for Children, which will be tabled in Parliament this month.
The new legislation will make it clear, for example, that the Commissioner’s expanded role includes the establishment of further mechanisms to consult with children and young people to ascertain their views and incorporate those in the Commissioner’s work and participation on broader policy discussions.
This is just one initiative among a host of activities in my portfolio that are about helping to improve the lives of children in Tasmania, including:
• redesigning the child protection system to ensure Tasmania is a leader in implementing best practice to protect the rights of our children at all levels;
• looking at early identification and intervention models for children with Autism – a disability with prevalence rates growing at a faster rate than any other disability; and
• in partnership with Community Sector Organisations, joining up human services to better deliver early intervention and prevention services that are holistic.
As a State we are working to achieve real change on these issues, and I believe that the work being undertaken in my portfolio and across Government will help to move Tasmania in the right direction.
Today’s forum gave all participants an opportunity to share their respective expertise, knowledge and skills so that together, we can create the ideal community for young children.
Jacquie Petrusma, Minister for Human Services
