Policy context

A positive sense of identity and culture is essential for children and young people to thrive. For young people, valuing cultural diversity reflects inclusion and acceptance.¹ Environments that celebrate diversity help children feel proud of their own heritage while fostering respect for others and reducing social stereotyping.⁵

The United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child Article 2 states that parties shall respect and ensure the rights set forth in the Convention to each child within their jurisdiction without discrimination of any kind, irrespective of the child's or his or her parent's or legal guardian's race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national, ethnic or social origin, property, disability, birth or other status.²

Creating equitable, inclusive environments helps all children—particularly those from Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and culturally diverse backgrounds—feel safe and valued.³ While support for multiculturalism remains strong, research shows it is increasingly challenged by global and economic pressures.⁴ Monitoring young people’s attitudes towards diversity is therefore vital, as discrimination continues to limit full participation in society.

Promoting diversity as a societal asset supports prosocial identities, strengthens social cohesion, and helps ensure that cultural background is a source of strength rather than a barrier to opportunity.⁵