Children’s Voices Centre

The Children’s Voices Centre (CVC) is a research centre at Charles Sturt University focused on ensuring children’s perspectives are heard and included in decisions that affect their lives. The centre conducts interdisciplinary research that empowers children to communicate, collaborate and help shape a more inclusive and equitable world.

The initiative is guided by the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, reinforcing the idea that children have the right to be heard and participate in decisions affecting them.

Who this initiative supports

The centre works with a wide range of stakeholders, including:

  • Children and young people
  • Families and communities
  • Educators and early childhood professionals
  • Healthcare and allied health professionals
  • Researchers and policymakers
  • Government departments and international organisations

Research is conducted in environments such as homes, schools, early childhood centres, healthcare settings and community spaces.

Our Work and Impact

The centre conducts interdisciplinary research and programs designed to amplify children’s voices and improve outcomes for them.

Key focus areas include:

Children’s voices and participation Supporting children to express their perspectives and participate in decision-making processes.

Multilingual children’s speechResearch supporting children who speak multiple languages and helping professionals understand multilingual communication.

Early childhood education and workforceImproving early childhood education systems and workforce sustainability.

Speech, language and communication needsDeveloping evidence-based practices to support children with speech or communication challenges.

The centre also researches children’s health, wellbeing and participation in everyday activities.

The initiative aims to:

  • Promote social justice and equity for children
  • Improve education, health and communication outcomes
  • Influence policy, professional practice and services
  • Reduce barriers for children with diverse abilities or backgrounds

The research contributes to global initiatives such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including quality education, good health, reduced inequalities and partnerships.

The Children’s Voices Centre offers much more than what’s highlighted here. To learn more about their research, projects and impact, visit the Children’s Voices Centre website.

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