Every Child deserves to grow up free from child sexual abuse.

Here in Australia, by the time a child reaches 18 years of age, 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 5 boys will have experienced child sexual abuse (National Centre for Action on Child SExual Abuse, 2026).

This is not acceptable!

There are ways we can tackle this statistic but it takes a multi-disciplinary approach. One way we can help is through Education. More specifically, by ensuring that all children in the Early Years receive comprehensive body education in order to help them know what abuse is and what to do should it happen to them.

With the South Australian State election coming up, now is the time for our community to ask one simple question of every candidate: What will you do to keep our children safe?

Child safety isn’t political — it’s a shared responsibility. Prevention, education and listening to children must be priorities, no matter who is elected.

We are calling for improved delivery and accountaility around body safety education in all primary schools, kindergartens and child care centres, and for staff:child ratios to be adhered to in all child care centres.

We are encouraging friends, families, educators, SSO's, ECW's, parents, advocates and community members to join us on the steps of SA Parliament House, North Terrace, Adelaide on Sunday, March 8, to send a clear message to all candidates that child safety and protection needs to be a priority.

If you believe every child has the right to safety and dignity, please get involved, ask the question, and help make child safety impossible to ignore this election.

Because child abuse is preventable — and protecting children must always come first.

"Every Child" will be hosted by child safety advocates, Paula Leuthen and Karen Keavy.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Karen Keavy