A practical guide to help Australian government officials ensure children’s perspectives are meaningfully included in the development of policies and programs that affect them, particularly in early childhood education and care settings. It includes best practice guidance on how and when to consult with children, and considerations for safe and inclusive consultations.

The purpose of this literature review is to undertake a concise review of contemporary literature and other frameworks to identify areas of strength and potential areas for updating the national Approved Learning Frameworks (ALFs).

A national consortium led by a partnership between Macquarie University, Queensland University of Technology and Edith Cowan University was engaged by ACECQA on behalf of all governments to lead this project, and this paper was prepared by the Chief Investigators of the consortium.