Offer free family events and activities for children. Community cultural events and opportunities for recreation help build connections between families and young people. Accessibility is increased when events are run free of charge.

Invite senior community leaders to speak at an event or service. Hearing about and valuing local culture and wisdom helps families learn and grow together and strengthens community bonds.

Initiate a local Child Friendly Business Award for organisations who exceed expectations in meeting the needs of children. Recognising businesses efforts helps raise the profile of children, needs of families in our society, and the role that businesses should play in their community.

Develop child related policies and procedures. A child protection policy should promote wellbeing and early intervention practices, as well as be consistent with state/territory mandatory reporting legislation. Ensure that all staff and volunteers engaged in child related work hold a valid Working With Children Check.

A code of conduct for working with children and young people is a practical tool for promoting clear and consistent roles and behaviour. When implemented and supported consistently, these policies work to protect children, workers and the organisation.

Help and support parents in continuous improvement of their parenting skills. Providing family support services and parenting courses help to overcome the challenges of parenting, and creates opportunities for support, skill development and networking with other families.

Ensure community services and events are accessible to isolated families by providing outreach programs and free or low cost transport.

Promote and support the local library as an ideal location to share information, promote quality time between parents and children and build social connections between families.

Provide opportunities for children to play and have fun: playgroup, parks, libraries, safe streets, parent-friendly parking and safe bike paths encourage play, exercise and social get-togethers amongst children, parents and families.

Share a directory of local services in the council’s facilities. By simplifying processes for accessing support, families are assisted in seeking help to raise their children.

Provide high quality, flexible and accessible child care options to allow parents to engage in the workforce or to invest in other aspects of family or community life. Consider the cost and location of services in order to meet the diverse needs of families.

Where possible, seek input about council services from senior community or family members. Valuing local culture and wisdom may improve your relationships and can help increase knowledge about community needs.