Faith leaders unite in action for children
Faith leaders unite in action for children
In April 2026, UNICEF Australia hosted Faith in Action, bringing together faith leaders and partners for a guided, closed‑door conversation focused on advancing the rights and wellbeing of children. Those in attendance included representatives from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Sydney and Affiliated Regions, Islamic Relief Australia, Affinity Intercultural Foundation, United Sikhs Australia, Buddhist Council NSW, Laos Buddhist Temple, Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA), BLIA Scout Group, Australian Baha’i Community, India Australia Strategic Alliance, and Notre Dame University.
The gathering created space for open and thoughtful dialogue across faith traditions, grounded in shared values of compassion, service and responsibility toward children. Participants reflected on the complex challenges facing children and young people, and explored opportunities to deepen collaboration and advocacy in Australia and across the region.
Hope emerged as a unifying theme – hope grounded in action, shared values and a collective commitment. This was brought to life through The Tree of Hope, an artwork created by children aged six to 10, with each leaf symbolising hopes and dreams of children for their future. Guests were invited to reflect on what they hope for children and to share a favourite scripture, verse or quote that inspires their action. Together, these reflections formed a powerful expression of intergenerational solidarity – and a reminder that hope, when nurtured and shared, can shape a better future for every child.
"The Tree of Hope and each of its leaves represents something simple but powerful – what hope looks like for children. They want to feel safe, to be heard, to go to school, to have a future they can shape themselves. These aren’t big abstract ideas; they are basic rights."
UNICEF Australia Chief Executive Officer Tony Stuart welcomed guests, emphasising the vital role faith communities play in shaping positive outcomes for children.
“Across faiths and cultures, there is a shared moral responsibility to stand with children,” Tony Stuart said. “At UNICEF, hope, means action. When compassion is paired with collective action, it becomes a powerful force for change for children.”
Faith in Action forms part of UNICEF Australia’s ongoing work with faith‑based partners, strengthening collaboration, mobilising communities, and supporting children in Australia and around the world.
