8 March 2024

The Commission is ensuring some of the youngest Canberrans understand their rights.

A series of human rights resources designed for children and young people, including an animation, guidebook, card game and posters, was launched today by ACT Minister for Human Rights, Tara Cheyne and ACT Children and Young People Commissioner, Jodie Griffiths-Cook.

The resources are the result of conversations Ms Griffiths-Cook and her team had with over 170 children and young people.

“In 2023, we asked what human rights mean to children and young people, and how they like to learn about their rights.

“The children and young people we spoke to had an innate sense of social justice and equality, but they were sometimes unclear about how their rights are protected in the ACT, and what happens if their rights are transgressed.

“We wanted to design resources especially for children and young people so they could learn about their rights, in ways they understand and in formats they prefer.

“So, we asked them what we should do.

“Children and young people said they like reading information online and enjoy watching videos. That was not a surprise, but perhaps less expected was that students also said talking to adults at school and at home is one of their favourite ways to learn.

“We have designed a guidebook to explain the Human Rights Act 2004, a 4-minute animation, posters and a card game. Young people have been involved in the design process and we hope the range of resources will mean they can be easily used at home and at school,” Ms Griffiths-Cook said.

President of the Human Rights Commission and the Human Rights Commissioner, Dr Penelope Mathew underlined the importance of ensuring children know their rights: “Children and young people who understand their human rights, and can identify when the rights of others are not protected, are more likely to advocate for themselves and others, and are likely to be safer and more empowered.”

To see all the resources visit actkids.act.gov.au