The third Australian Child Health Poll has found that most Australians think that compared to when they were growing up, children today are either no better or worse off across a range of indicators including mental health, safe neighbourhoods and prospects for employment.

And their pessimism extends into politics, with more than 47 per cent of Australians saying that no political party leader
represents their views about the wellbeing of children and teenagers.

The Director of the Child Health Poll, paediatrician Dr Anthea Rhodes, said that in an era in which discussions about resourcing were dominated by the needs of older Australians, the findings were an unexpected call to action.

“Despite great advances in medicine, public health, and technology, most Australians believe life for children and teenagers
today is no better, and in many aspects worse, than when they were growing up.

“And when it comes to whether our politicians are doing enough for children, the answer is a resounding ‘no’ with almost 50 per cent of people saying federal politicians neither understand nor represent the interests of children and young people today, and 76 per cent agreeing that they should take more action on issues relating to children’s wellbeing,” Dr Rhodes said.

The poll also revealed Australians’ support for Government interventions targeted at tackling rising obesity rates including a tax on sugary drinks, compulsory daily physical activity in schools, and a gradual ban on junk food advertising aimed at children and teenagers.

Read more at www.childhealthpoll.org.au