The WA Today article highlights the need for safer streets and child-friendly public spaces, advocating for policy changes and infrastructure improvements. It underscores the importance of initiatives like VCI's Street Play campaign to push for road safety and reclaim spaces for children’s outdoor play. For more, read the full article here.
The Valuing Children Initiative spoke with 6PR about how we can reclaim our streets for play, strengthen communities, and create safer spaces for children. 🎧 Listen to the full discussion here
VCI Talks to ABC Radio Listen Here
Why VCI is Hosting Street Parties—And How You Can Get Involved! #
Children have a right to play (UN Rights of the Child #31), but modern life is making that harder. A 2024 Australian Institute of Family Studies report (reference: Improving the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable children) found that children are spending more time indoors due to safety concerns, fewer nature spaces, and increased screen time. This shift is negatively impacting their wellbeing and development.
At VCI, we believe that all children should have access to safe outdoor play. That’s why we’ve launched the Street Play initiative—to create safe, fun spaces for kids to play outside while raising awareness about the importance of child-friendly neighbourhoods.
How We’re Making a Difference #
Street parties give children the chance to play outdoors safely while showing communities the benefits of reclaiming public spaces.
Thanks to a grant from Main Roads and Town Teams, we secured a traffic management plan to safely close streets for play.
In our consultations with children, their biggest request was clear: they want drivers to slow down and prioritise their safety.
What We Hope to Achieve #
We’re presenting our findings to local councils to push for policy changes that make it easier for communities to hold safe outdoor events.
We want to see more opportunities for children to play outside, fostering stronger, more connected communities.
Want to bring a street party to your neighbourhood? We’d love to hear from you! Let’s work together to make our streets safer for children to play.
