Smiling Mind is calling for a transformation in the way we support children’s mental wellbeing – and more broadly to the way children’s needs and rights are prioritised nationally.

We are calling for a Minister for Children, to ensure there is adequate focus and funding to address the growing crisis in our kids' mental health and wellbeing.

Australian children's mental health and wellbeing is deteriorating at alarming rates.

• 70% of presentations to paediatricians in Australia are for mental health concerns, yet more than half of children experiencing mental health challenges are not receiving professional help.
• Among kids aged 6-12, Social Anxiety Disorder increased by 45% between 2020 - 2022, ADHD by 42%, peer relationship difficulties by 39% and educational and learning concerns by 35%.

Mental wellbeing is an asset for life, and the foundation for good mental health begins in childhood – we need to increase our focus on promoting and protecting children’s mental wellbeing.

There is no Federal Minister responsible for children, and they urgently need a champion to drive the change they deserve to turn this crisis around.

Australian kids need a dedicated advocate to aid their recovery from the unique and profound impacts they encountered because of the pandemic, and to adequately prepare them with the skills they’ll need to navigate climate crisis, economic uncertainty, technological disruption, and global instability.

Failure to act now will result in long-term consequences and the worsening of Australia’s already dire mental health crisis, increasing the pressure on a system at breaking point. 

Please help us create genuine change by signing this petition and by sharing the link and your reason for signing. 

Visit Smiling Mind’s website for more information at: https://www.smilingmind.com.au/our-kids-count

Smiling Mind is Australia’s leading digital-led, prevention focussed mental health not-for-profit, with a vision of helping every mind thrive. If you would like to further support our work, you can donate directly at: https://donate.smilingmind.com.au/