The Engaging Children in Decision Making guide was first published in 2013 as a partnership project by Melton, Brimbank, Wyndham, Maribyrnong and Ballarat City Councils. Funding was received in 2023 from the Department of Education to update the guide to include Victorian Child Safe Standards, Best Start Guidelines and information, evidence, and best practice examples from the period 2013-2023.
The guide is a practical resource for all professionals and organisations that affirms the importance of including the voices of children in the planning, design and evaluation of strategies, environments, and programs. It outlines a range of opportunities to engage with children and issues to consider as part of best practice.