Life Without Barriers has long been guided by the voices of the people we support.
Image: Youth Advisory Panel from the left; Olivia, Tim, Jack, Hannah and Lara are sitting on the stage speaking.
Life Without Barriers has long been guided by the voices of the people we support. This year, that commitment has been strengthened with the development of our first Accountability Statement, created in collaboration with the National Youth Advisory Group (NYAG).
The NYAG is made up of 15 young people aged between 15 and 25 from across Australia, all with lived experience of care. They bring insight, ideas and courage to conversations that shape our organisation. Their perspectives remind us that accountability is not just a principle, it is a practice that must be embedded in how we work every day.
Members of the NYAG came together to explore what accountability really means for young people in care. They reflected on their experiences and workshopped the language to ensure the Statement spoke directly to children and young people. Their leadership shaped a document that is clear, direct and grounded in lived experience.
“It’s amazing what happens when you position people as the experts in their own lives; allow space and listen to their reflections. Young people know what matters to them, and their families.” Said Carly Jacobitz, Deputy Chief Executive, Child Youth and Family
"We know that children’s voices must guide the system and we are committed to hearing children’s voices and building the world they deserve, safe, inclusive, and empowering."
"That’s why we are launching our Accountability Statement, developed in partnership with Youth Advocates from our National Youth Advisory Group."
Image: Toby and Tara sit next to each other on a black lounge. Tara is wearing a light blue knit and jeans, Toby is wearing a white t-shirt and black jeans.
When the Child, Youth and Family Leadership Team reviewed the draft, they decided to strengthen it further by making the Statement a framework for action rather than aspiration. These commitments are aligned with Life Without Barriers’ values, ensuring the Statement reflects both who we are and how we strive to act.
The Accountability Statement promises:
Transparency: We are honest in our communication to build trust and engagement
Involvement: We include children and young people in decision-making processes to enhance their voices
Support: We provide ongoing guidance through periods of transition to ensure emotional and cultural safety
Feedback: We listen to children and young people's voices to improve services and practices
Empowerment: We provide training and resources to enable youth leadership and advocacy
For young people in care, accountability means being heard, being informed, and being part of decisions about their lives. For Life Without Barriers, it means creating systems where those expectations are not optional, but standard practice.
