Worrying trend as more WA children face uncertain future

Commissioner for Children and Young People, Jacqueline McGowan-Jones, has released the latest edition of the annual publication, ‘Profile of Children and Young People in WA 2025'.

The Commissioner said the Profile provides an important insight into the lives of nearly 653,000 children and young people living in WA, who represent 22 per cent of the state’s total population. It compiles up-to-date data and identifies trends in the areas of population, childcare, education and vulnerability.

“In some areas such as homelessness, poverty and child protection, the figures are alarming."

Another concerning finding is that, despite evidence LGBTIQA+ children and young people are experiencing significant challenges, they are largely invisible in government administrative data and national data sets because systematic collection of demographic data is rarely inclusive of diverse sex, sexuality and gender.

More needs research is needed to understand the issues faced by LGBTIQA+ children and young people, so we can provide effective supports.

"Children today are more vulnerable than ever before. From increasing poverty and displacement to lack of access to basic services, we must not only raise awareness but also prioritise tangible, systemic change that can mitigate these threats to ensure a safer, brighter future for our children and young people."