Monday, 12 October 2026

House of Representatives

Mr Tim Wilson MP:

Raise Our Voice Australia is an initiative that gives young Australians the chance to speak directly into the nation's parliament. Each year, students write a speech on an issue that matters to them. This year's question asked them to name one big issue shaping their future and one meaningful action they wanted the parliament to take. In our community, Alice, who is 11, took up that challenge. Her concern is simple: Australian kids are spending too much time on their screens, and there aren't enough local playgrounds. She said, in her own words:

I believe not having enough playgrounds is a big problem shaping our future. As parents are so exhausted and tired, they are not willing to drive kids to the parks. Children are being distracted and screen time is increasing every day, which is not good for their health.

I am also worried about the lack of playgrounds because there are currently only 40 active playgrounds in local councils in Victoria. That is not enough!

Kids are resorting to going on their screens when going outside isn't an option. Not having enough playgrounds for our future is a problem. Neighbourhoods with little kids should have playgrounds. Kids with no playgrounds plus screen time increasing can shape their future.

Screen time has increased massively, by around 70 per cent in kids in the last five years, Google states, because of parents who can't be bothered taking their kids to a playground when it's not within walking distance. Ultimately, playgrounds are a necessity to the lives of young people and to communities around Victoria. This has to stop now!

Alice does not mince her words, and neither should we. Alice's message to parliament is simple: put a playground within walking distance of every young family. She has shown real courage in raising her voice, and she has made a powerful case for letting kids be kids. Congratulations, Alice.