Impact Newsletter March 2024

Dear supporters, 

We are excited to share with you some of the fantastic work being carried out across the Foundation, as well as the achievements your generosity has made possible over the past several months. 

Your dedication and commitment to our organisation and purpose drives initiatives like Our Collective Experience Project, previously known as Emma’s Project, that showcases the transformative power of survivor-led initiatives.  

In February we reached a significant milestone in our journey towards preventing child sexual abuse as we launched the first report for the project at Parliament House. The groundbreaking report, “Hear us now, act now”, is the first of its kind in Australia and the findings are eye opening. It demands change and leaves no doubt about its pressing urgency and the absolute need for action.

The report presents key insights gathered from survivors of child sexual abuse on what they know could have helped keep them safe, with the primary aim being to contribute to substantial policy change to reduce the prevalence of child sexual abuse.   

Backed by these findings, we are calling for the government to hear the voices of survivors of child sexual abuse and put forward the first recommendation to come from the research; for mandatory education on child sexual abuse prevention to be included within the Working With Children Check program and all other registration systems for people who work with children. 

Shockingly, mandatory training is not required for individuals holding a Working With Children Check anywhere in Australia. This oversight directly impacts the safety of children, emphasising the critical need for reform - a simple change that can enormously impact the safety of all children. 

Lend your voice to this campaign and join us in amplifying the voices of survivors and safeguarding the wellbeing of future generations. Together we can advocate for change and ensure a safer tomorrow for Australian children and young people. 

Please continue to read through our news to find out more about what the Foundation has been doing since we last updated you.

We cannot reflect on these achievements without being reminded of the profound impact that each and every one of you has had on the lives of children and families across Australia. It is your support that enables us to advocate for the voices of those who need to be heard and for change that protects and defends children in our communities. 

With our warmest thanks, 

Janise Mitchell

Deputy CEO, Australian Childhood Foundation