What we do
The Commissioner is the independent person who works closely with children and young people, their families, community and government to make Western Australia a better place for children and young people aged 0 to 17 years.
The Commissioner's role and functions
The position was created because the Western Australian Parliament made a commitment to the children and young people of WA that they would live in a state where they were heard, valued, healthy and safe.
The WA Parliament passed the Commissioner for Children and Young People Act in 2006.
A joint standing committee provides an oversight role for the WA Parliament.
The Commissioner undertakes projects, commissions research, publishes reports, and hosts events to highlight specific aspects of children and young people’s wellbeing. Using research and the other evidence available, the Commissioner seeks to positively influence legislation, policy, services and attitudes.
The office meets regularly with key decision makers and advises on legislation and policy through submissions and issues papers and speaks directly to government and the broader community.
In particular, the key functions of the office include:
- advocating for all children and young people
- monitoring laws, policies and practices that affect the wellbeing of children and young people
- promoting and valuing the voice of children and young people and the positive contributions they make to our society
- consulting with children and young people, parents, families and government and non-government organisations
- researching the latest trends and information that relate to children and young people
- inquiring on behalf of children and young people about issues relating to their wellbeing.
The Commissioner’s work has regard to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and acting on the principle that parents, families and communities have the primary role in safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of their children and young people and should be supported in carrying out their role.
Commitment to the safety of children and young people
Children and young people are entitled to live in a caring and nurturing environment and to be protected from harm and exploitation. Children and young people should be safe, feel safe and be respected wherever they are. The Commissioner for Children and Young People prioritises the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in all work of the office and in our work with other organisations.
Strategic Plan
The Commissioner’s Strategic Plan 2024-2027 guides the work of the Commissioner as she strives for a better world for all children and young people where their voices and rights are valued and respected.
Read more by downloading the document below, or hard copies are available upon request by contacting the Commissioner’s office.