What Is Child Advocacy?
Child advocacy protects and promotes the rights, safety and wellbeing of children. Advocates help children understand what is happening, express their views, and take part in decisions that affect their daily lives.
Why Children Need Advocates
Children may need advocacy because they often:
- lack power in decisions made by adults
- are not always listened to or believed
- face communication or trust barriers
- feel unsafe expressing concerns
- experience trauma, stress or confusion during major decisions
Where Child Advocacy Occurs
- child protection and out-of-home care
- family law and custody matters
- school exclusion or disciplinary processes
- health and mental health services
- youth justice settings
- disability supports and NDIS meetings
Examples of Child Advocacy
- helping a child prepare for a family meeting or case conference
- supporting a young person to express their wishes in court or care planning
- requesting adjustments at school for safety or inclusion
- assisting a child to make a complaint about unsafe treatment
- ensuring cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
Principles of Effective Child Advocacy
- child safety first
- child’s best interests and wishes
- trauma-informed practice
- culturally safe and inclusive approaches
- age-appropriate communication
- confidentiality and trust
Quick Summary
- Child advocacy protects children’s rights, safety and voice.
- Advocates support children in education, legal, care and health settings.
- Children are guided through decisions with respect, safety and clarity.
- Advocacy is essential where children face power imbalances or risk of harm.