The Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC) is talking to young people about what it is like to grow up in Queensland in the 21st century. This is so your views about the communities you live in, your hopes for the future and the things that worry and concern you can be heard.
It is an opportunity for you to make a difference for people like you, now and in the future.
We want to hear your views, opinions and experiences about:
• The place you call home – how you experience life in your community; your opinions about safety, support and the physical places where you spend your time
• Your hopes and dreams – your career goals and the things which might help or stop you achieving them; and
• The big picture – what do you think government’s should focus on and how do you want your community to look now and in the future.
Your views and ideas will be included in reports the Commissioner sends to government and community agencies who work with or provide services to young people to help them understand your needs and views. We will also use the information in presentations and online so the wider community can hear your voice and ideas. It will also be used to develop a wellbeing strategy for Queensland children and young people.
The Commissioners will write back to you through schools, libraries Youth Groups and your parents/carers so they can let you know what children and young people said about what it’s like growing up in Queensland. Information will also be on the QFCC website.
The online survey and weekly questions and the submission of art work or citizen journalist pieces all close on 29 June 2018.
Cheryl Vardon was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Commissioner of the QFCC in October 2015. Cheryl is committed to championing the needs of all children and making sure they have what they need to flourish.
Phillip Brooks joined the QFCC, as Commissioner, in October 2017. Phillip is a proud Aboriginal man and is deeply invested in supporting Queensland’s First Nations children and their families to heal, grow and prosper.
Cheryl and Phillip work with communities, government and other organisations to increase the wellbeing of all children and young people in Queensland.
The views and experiences of children, young people and families underpin the advice they give. Find out more...
Email the Growing up in Queensland project team can help with any questions.
If you are feeling worried or anxious about things there is support available. Reach out to your parents/carers or someone who cares for you and talk to them about how you are feeling and why. You can also talk to a teacher you trust or your school guidance counsellor.
If you want someone else to talk to, there is free, confidential support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:
The QFCC can also connect you with a health professional. Please contact growingupQLD@qfcc.qld.gov.au or 3900 6000 if you would like this level of support.
If this happens talk to them about how they are feeling and why. Talk to someone at their school to let them know what is happening and so they can put support in place if needed.
If they still feel anxious or sad after more than two or three days you should contact your family doctor, call 13Health (13 43 25 84) or seek specialist support if your child continues to shows signs of anxiety or sadness.
Local support services can be found via www.oneplace.org.au. Alternatively you can contact Parentline on 1300 30 1300 for support and advice.
There are also free, confidential support services, both phone and online, which are available state-wide, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to support them too. Your child has been given this information but remind them there is help available. These services are:
For people aged 7 – 18 years
For people aged 12 or over
