To explore international approaches to national play strategies for children's health and wellbeing

Play is a biological imperative for children, critical for healthy development both cognitively and physically. This project aimed to undertake a comprehensive review of countries with play agendas and national strategies that have been adopted by governments to support children's health and wellbeing. The study aimed to identify processes, critical success factors, barriers and outcomes for communities, supported by case studies, to shape and influence approaches to the development of a national agenda for play in Australia.

Report Summary

Investigating 16 cities across eight countries, Robyn's research highlights that play is a biological necessity and a social determinant of health. In the final report, Robyn outlines "key threads" focused on legislation, cross-sectoral investment, and community-led co-design—notably centering children’s and adolescents' voices. Proposing a "Play Utopia" for Australia, the report advocates for embedding the UNCRC into national law, implementing statutory Play Sufficiency Assessments, and building robust philanthropic-governmental partnerships to dismantle structural barriers and secure every child’s right to play.