NSW Children’s Week is almost at a close, running from October 20 to 27, with the aim of celebrating the needs, rights, and remarkable achievements of children across the state.

With nearly one-third of young people living in regional and rural areas, the NSW Advocate for Children and Young People, Zoë Robinson, sees this week as a valuable opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible children of NSW and make sure their voices are heard.

“In NSW, over 1.8 million children and young people aged 0-18 have unique experiences, dreams, and aspirations. It is crucial that we build a society where every child feels safe, valued, and empowered to achieve their full potential,” said Ms. Robinson.

This year’s Children’s Week theme focuses on the right of children to a clean and safe environment, based on Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Sadly, not all children in NSW can access these basic rights.

According to the Department of Community and Justice’s (DCJ) recent quarterly report, 105,560 "Risk of significant harm" reports were made between April and June this year—a 3.9% increase from 2022.

In June this year, Western Plains App reported that child protection services were dangerously understaffed in our region, with no workers at all at Walgett. NSWPSA Regional Organiser Tom Hooper said poor salaries and a blow-out in costs for children living in out of home care were two triggers for resignations across the state. 

"Only one in four (children at risk of significant harm) are actually being seen by caseworkers because of a staff shortage” Mr Hooper said. 

At the time of writing, caseworkers were still being sought for the Walgett region.

Child protection workers protested about the state of the industry across New South Wales earlier this year, including in Cobar.

Ms. Robinson also highlighted the importance of embracing the rich diversity of NSW’s young people, noting that 114,923 children identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

“NSW is home to a vibrant mix of cultures, and we must celebrate this diversity,” she said. “By respecting and understanding different cultures, we can foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all children.”

Despite these challenges, communities across the Western Plains are stepping up to support children.

Royal Far West, a charity focused on the developmental, mental, and behavioral health of children in rural and remote areas, is a lifeline for many families.

Supported by local groups like Coonamble Royal Far West, who recently raised $15,000 at their 90th anniversary high tea event, the organization ensures that kids in rural areas get the help they need to thrive.

The charity also runs the annual "Ride for Country Kids," a three-day cycling event across regional NSW. The 2025 ride will celebrate Royal Far West’s 100th anniversary, taking cyclists on an outback journey through Bourke, Cobar, Nyngan, and Narromine—key locations in the charity's long history of providing vital services to children.

For more information on the Ride for Country Kids contact royalfarwest.org.au.