Children illustrate importance of family through art
20 November 2025
What does family mean to you? This is the thought-provoking question which adorned Queen’s Hall this week.
Members of Parliament and staff passed by an exhibition of artworks produced by children and young people.
MPs and visitors were given the opportunity to add to a wall their own messages of what family means to them, while celebrating the success of the winning entries in the National Families Week Art Competition.
The event is facilitated by the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare, which is the peak body for children and families in Victoria and Tasmania.
‘It is so wonderful to be here at Parliament House this week celebrating children’s voices and creativity at the heart of our democracy,’ Strategy, Partnerships and Engagement Executive Manager Imogen Gerraty said.
‘We’re showcasing 16 winning artworks by children right across the state, sharing with us that family is about joy, family is about humour, family’s about creativity and family means something different to every child and young person.’
In 2025, more than 220 children and young people from the two states entered the competition.
“ 'My family is my life. I love when we work outside together in the garden as a family.' ”
Aneeka, 7 years old (Winner, Under 8)
During an awards ceremony at Parliament House the winning entrants were presented with certificates and some were given the opportunity to reflect on their artworks.
“ 'I feel like family means whoever you feel close to. If you love them and they love you, you can consider them family. Friends, biological family, teachers, anyone can be considered family.' ”
Ameliya, 10 years old (Winner, 8-12)
You can view the full list of winners and find out more on the competition website.