Five Australian screen stories for children over 12
As children move into the complex years comprising late primary school and adolescence, the stories they engage with matter deeply. The following five series respect children’s intelligence and maturity and provide a safe framework for exploring big ideas like friendship, grief, ambition, and belonging.
A place for every story: Why children should be at the heart of Australia’s National Cultural Policy
The ACTF has issued a call to action in its submission to the National Cultural Policy consultation. At a time when online platforms and algorithms are reshaping how children experience culture, stories and one another, the policy must put children and young people at its centre.
Bringing Barrumbi Kids to Life in the Classroom
At our school, we are always looking for powerful ways to build knowledge and engage students with texts that reflect authentic Australian stories and perspectives. This term, the Barrumbi Kids television series and its accompanying resources have provided exactly that.
IDAHOBIT Day: The importance of positive representation in Australian children’s television
May 17 is IDAHOBIT day - International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia. In today’s complex media landscape, positive and diverse representations of the LGBTQIA+ community have never been more important for LGBTQIA+ youth.
Aussies love kids’ cartoons – just not paying for them
The story that the ABC “fluffed the deal” for Bluey covers up the truth that broadcasters never want to pay what it costs to make children’s television. It is never valued at its true worth.
Making space for wonder: using Moonfish with Year 7s in the library
Inspired by Shaun Tan’s extraordinary storytelling worlds, the ACTF's resource - centred around the new television series - gives teachers flexible, curriculum-aligned ways to explore visual storytelling, critical thinking, creativity and emotional literacy.
How Screen Stories Bring Civics and Citizenship to Life
Civics and citizenship education helps young people understand how our democracy works, what it means to participate in community life, and how everyday actions connect to fairness, rights and responsibilities. Children’s television is full of moments that capture the essence of civic life and help students see civics as something they live every day.