It’s Children’s Week and the Allan Labor Government is helping local communities join the celebrations with hundreds of fun, educational and free activities and events across the state.

Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn today kicked off the 2023 Children’s Week festivities, announcing more than 200 free community events for families across Victoria.

Children’s Week runs until 29 October and will see thousands of Victorian children participate in events and activities organised by early childhood services, community organisations, cultural groups, libraries, and councils.

The Labor Government is supporting Children’s Week activities with grants of up $1,000 for eligible not-for-profit organisations and, this year, has distributed almost $190,000 in funding towards 207 events.

The grants support activities including music and dance workshops, cooking sessions, arts and crafts, outdoor play, games and performances, gardening, exhibitions, storytelling, picnics, children’s fairs and more.

Children’s Week is a national campaign that celebrates the right of children to enjoy childhood. It showcases their talents, skills, achievements, and rights while providing educational experiences for them and their families.

The theme for this year’s Children’s Week – Children have the right to relax, play and to take part in activities they enjoy – relates to Article 31 of the United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of the Child – aligning with Victoria’s nation-leading Best Start, Best Life early childhood education reforms.

More than 26,500 children and families took part in Children’s Week activities last year, with more than 125 community events receiving funding.

All Children’s Week events are free for families with children up to 12 years of age and are a fantastic opportunity for Victorian families to come together and enjoy fun, engaging and educational experiences in their communities.

To get involved or find Children’s Week events in your area, visit vic.gov.au/childrens-week-events-2023.