The City of Melbourne is a child-friendly city. There are nearly 6,000 children aged 12 and under living within its borders and this age group forms a growing proportion of the population.
We believe in children having the right to express their views and to be included in the decisions that affect their lives. That’s why, for the first time, the City of Melbourne’s Children’s Plan has been written with children and for children.
The Children’s Plan provides a framework for the City of Melbourne’s approach to providing the services, programs and infrastructure needed by families and children from birth to 12 years of age. It has been developed within the context of international, national and state-level policies, and alongside the City of Melbourne Empowering Young People – Young People’s Policy 2010 - 2013.
Our vision for children
Melbourne’s children are respected, healthy, safe and connected. Our Children’s Plan recognises the rights of children. We respect their right and ability to help shape the city. A part of our vision is that a liveable city for children is a liveable city for all.
Respected
We will champion the rights of children, ensuring their voices are heard throughout all levels of government. We will advocate for and involve children in the debate and decision-making process.
Healthy
We will make sure children have the best possible start in life; paying attention to the physical, social and emotional wellbeing.
Safe
We will work in partnership with others to help children feel safe, secure and protected.
Connected
We will work in partnership with children, families and others to help children feel safe, secure and protected.
Themes
Theme 1 – rights of children
Outcome: Strengthen the City of Melbourne’s role as an advocate for the rights of children.
Theme 2 – opportunities to connect and build strong communities
Outcome: Give children more opportunities to connect with family, friends and the wider community.
Theme 3 – healthy children
Outcome: Create an environment that supports children’s all-round health and wellbeing.
Theme 4 – safer city
Outcome: Improve the real and perceived safety of the city for children.
Theme 5 – natural and urban environment
Outcome: Children are better able to connect with the natural and urban environment.
Theme 6 – services and infrastructure
Outcome: High quality, accessible services and infrastructure are available to meet the needs of children and families.
Theme 7 – mobility
Outcome: Children are able to move around easily, safely and confidently both with their families and independently.
Download the Children's Plan:
Children's Plan 2010–13 (PDF, 3.1Mb) 
Summary of Children's Plan 2010–13 (PDF, 654kb)
(Accessible, text-only versions below are for users of screen-reader software only.)
Children's Plan 2010–13 (text only, 317kb)
Summary of Children's Plan 2010–13 (text only, 111kb)
Further information
For further information regarding the Children's Plan, please contact Alison Knott, senior policy officer families and children by phone on (03) 9658 9463 or by email.