Australian city invites youngsters to help shape its future
The Australian city of Ballarat is putting children at the heart of its future planning by launching a consultation on their views and ideas.
With a population of around 106,000, Ballarat is the third largest city in not only Victoria state but the whole of inland Australia, and so this is a significant move by a major municipality to engage with its young population.
‘Why should adults listen to kids’
Children under the age of 13 make up about 20 per cent of the population, and in 2020 there are more than 20,000 children, so the City of Ballarat says its more important than ever to give youngsters their say. They are asking three key questions: Why should adults listen to kids? What do you love about Ballarat? What makes a good neighbourhood?
Children can give their ideas through any methods they feel comfortable with, whether its through drawings, photos, stories or just formal written feedback. The responses will be evaluated by a special website being set up by the local council, and the ideas used to form future decisions over the city’s plans.
