This report shows encouraging progress for children and young people in Australia, including rising enrolments in early childhood education, increased civic participation, and strong health indicators such as immunisation coverage. The signing of the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement also marks a major step toward more equitable education.
However, the data shows that not all children have the same opportunity to thrive. Systemic inequalities — including poverty, racism, intergenerational trauma, and inadequate safeguarding systems — continue to place many children at risk. Children in out-of-home care, those with disability, and young people involved in child protection or youth justice systems experience disproportionate disadvantage. Developmental vulnerability, mental health concerns, financial pressures, online risks and climate-related impacts are also rising.
The report calls for coordinated, rights-based action to strengthen accountability, improve data on children’s experiences, invest in prevention and early intervention, and support community-led, culturally safe solutions. With strong institutions and resources, Australia has the capacity to ensure every child grows up safe, healthy, and supported — but achieving this requires making children a national priority.
