Council seeks community members for Child Friendly Cities & Communities Working Group
Ararat Rural City Council is calling for expressions of interest for more residents to join the Child Friendly Cities and Communities (CFCC) Working Group, a community-led group that amplifies local children’s voices and helps make our townships more welcoming and inclusive for young people.
The CFCC Working Group was formed last year and had 15 members who advocated for children to support them to participate in civic life, from shaping local events to informing future planning and projects. The group acts in an advisory capacity to the Council CEO, Dr Tim Harrison, championing practical ways to uphold and advance the principles of the Victorian Child Friendly Cities & Communities Charter in everyday decision making.
CFCC Chair, Nerissa Gee, said the group’s focus was on listening to children and turning their ideas into action. “Our meetings are grounded in real stories and experiences from children, families and service providers, and this year we’re keen to take the next step by developing an action plan for child and youth consultation, including co-designed ways to find out what young people would like to see in their communities,” Ms Gee said.
ARCC CEO, Dr Tim Harrison, said, “In its first year, the Working Group has explored some really innovative and low‑cost ways to give youths a share of voice. They’ve heard from young people with diverse lived experiences, and done the hard yards connecting with regional networks such as the Central Highlands Youth Services Network and the VLGA Child Friendly Cities and Communities network. It’s a tremendous resource that Council can rely on and make sure our programs deliver what’s needed most.”
If you’re passionate about children’s wellbeing and are interested in joining the CFCC Working Group please complete the online Expression of Interest form on the Engage Ararat website by 5.00 pm on 14 February 2026 or pick up a form from Council Customer Service.
For more information visit Engage Ararat.
