The wellbeing of children and young people in the ACT compares well with national data, but there are areas where the ACT needs to improve, a new report reveals.
The Children and Young People Lens, published by the ACT Government today, presents the latest data on the wellbeing of children and young people in the ACT from conception to 25 years old.
The Lens tracks the wellbeing of children and young people in the ACT against 12 themes, from economy, education, health, and housing, and to social connection, safety, identity and belonging, and living standards.
This includes a comprehensive overview of national and local indicators relating to the health, wellbeing, learning, and development of children and young people.
The Lens will replace the Picture of Children and Young People in the ACT that was published every two years. The online dashboard means data can be updated more often, and is more useful for comparison and analysis.
Rachel Stephen-Smith, ACT Minister for Families and Community Services, said measuring wellbeing helps to identify how all Canberrans’ lives can be improved.
“Supporting children and young people to grow up healthy and happy is a whole of community responsibility, including efforts of the government, the non-government sector, and everyone who can have an influence in their families and communities.
“By improving the way we analyse and present data relating to the wellbeing of children and young people, the Government and community can better target our collective efforts to build a city that gives kids the best start and the right supports as they navigate childhood and adolescence.
“The data in the Lens shows the wellbeing of children and young people in the ACT compares well with national data in indicators across the education, health, and safety domains, but it also shows there are areas where the ACT needs to improve.
“The Children and Young People Lens was developed in consultation with young people. They told us what matters to them and how their needs change as they get older. This will help to ensure we continue to develop policies and invest in programs that are age-appropriate and effective in supporting young Canberrans,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
This data complements the existing Wellbeing Dashboard, which focuses on people aged 18 and over.
The Children and Young People Lens is part of the ACT Wellbeing Framework.
Find out more and view the Children and Young People Lens.
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