Key information
- Tasmanian children and young people have rights.
- Children and young people are entitled to be loved, safe, healthy, learning, have the things they need, and to be connected to their culture and identity.
- You can always tell someone what is important to you.
What are my rights?
A right is something you are automatically entitled to.
As a child or young person in care in Tasmania, your rights are to:
- be safe and feel safe
- be consulted and listened to seriously about decisions that affect you
- have regular meetings with your Child Safety Officer or Safety and Wellbeing Worker
- be treated fairly and with respect for who you are
- identify with your culture and community and observe your chosen religion
- have safe contact with your family and people who matter to you
- have an education and gain life skills
- receive healthcare when you need it
- have your privacy respected.
Why are my rights important?
All children and young people should:
- be loved, safe and valued
- have the things they need (material basics)
- be healthy
- be learning
- be participating
- have a positive sense of culture and identity.
Where can I get more information about my rights?
- Check out the Charter of rights for Tasmanian children and young people (PDF, 1026KB) to read what your rights are.
- There is also an international agreement for child rights | unicef Australia by the United Nations. This applies to all children and young people in Tasmania.
- There are dedicated Child Advocates for children and young people in Out of Home Care. The job of an advocate is to hear what matters to you, and make sure adults listen to you.
- There is also a Commissioner for Children & Young People – check out their website Commissioner for Children and Young People.
- There are other pages on this website that might have more information to help you. Have a look at the links in the ‘Safe Children’ box to the right.
- Talk to the trusted adults in your life about what you need and any questions you might have.