The state government is pushing ahead with its promise to develop Tasmania's first Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy, with the demographic able to make submissions through drawings, paintings or postcards.
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In March, the government announced it would develop the strategy to cover every age from zero to 25 years old, before on Tuesday it opened up submissions and shared a discussion paper.
Premier Peter Gutwein said the strategy would specifically focus on the first 1000 days of a child's life, as it provided a critical foundation.
"Students who have greater wellbeing are more likely to have better educational outcomes, and a better quality of life, with the strategy providing the blueprint for Tasmanian children to thrive," he said.
"The consultation will ensure children, young people, their caregivers, service providers, and policy makers can make their voices heard, with multiple ways for people to have their say and input ideas through paper-based, digital and face-to-face channels.
"I urge all interested Tasmanians to make their voice heard and give us the information we need to continue delivering better health and wellbeing among young Tasmanians."
Mr Gutwein said the strategy would be delivered in the first half of 2021 and would be considered in the state's 2021/22 budget.
Consultation will take place online, with people able to share their thoughts through drawings, paintings, creative writing, a survey or by making a formal submission. Additionally a postcard can be sent to the Premier and there will be face-to-face consultations held statewide.
The announcement to develop a strategy came after a report by the state Commissioner of Children and Young People recommended the development of the strategy.
Commissioner Leanne McLean said she welcomed the government's desire to consult with children and young people to inform the strategy.
"Investing in the wellbeing of children and young people not only upholds their rights under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child but also provides the foundation for prosperity for all Tasmanians, irrespective of age," she said.
"Children and young people are experts in their own lives and provide a unique perspective on their needs and the ways to overcome barriers to achieving the very best wellbeing outcomes for them, now and into the future.
"I strongly encourage all children and young people in Tasmania up to the age of 25, as well as their parents, carers, service providers and other members of the community, to have their say."
Submissions and consultations will be open until March 19, visit wellbeing.tas.gov.au to make a submission online.
The face-to-face consultations, run by the CCYP, Youth Network of Tasmania, the Mental Health Council of Tasmania and Playgroup Tasmania, begin in Launceston on January 28, before visiting St Helens, Queenstown, Smithton, Devonport, Flinders Island, Hobart and King Island.
