Kids in Action 2025: Inspiring Young Australians to Walk Gently on Country

Ashley — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 07:53:57 +0000

The Kids in Action program is back for 2025, and this year’s theme, “Walking Country – Where Will Our Footprints Lead?”, is set to spark curiosity and action among young environmental leaders.

Run by the Sunshine Coast Council, the award-winning initiative invites students in Years 5-8 to take charge of their learning by planning and delivering hands-on environmental projects.

Kids in Action 2025 Theme’s Purpose

Each year, Kids in Action focuses on a theme and for this year, 2025, asks students to consider their “footprints” in both a literal and symbolic sense.

Photo Credit: Sunshine Coast Council

Do we walk with care and intention, respecting the land beneath us? Are we mindful of how our daily choices—big or small—affect our ecosystems and communities? Through creative projects, workshops, and interactive experiences, students will be encouraged to think about what it really means to “walk gently” with Country.

Learning from Traditional Custodians

One of the most powerful aspects of Kids in Action is the opportunity for students to connect with local custodians and Elders. Students will have a wider perspective of Country and deeply connect with Indigenous knowledge and ways.

Photo Credit: Sunshine Coast Council

By incorporating Indigenous perspectives into the program, students gain a greater appreciation for the land and its stories.

Kids in Action 2025 Key Events

The program isn’t just about talking—it’s about doing. Two major events will give students the chance to showcase their projects and take part in hands-on learning experiences:

Kids in Action Conference – 17 September 2025
A full-day event where students present their environmental projects, run workshops, and share their insights with peers. It’s a space for young minds to inspire and learn from each other.
Kids in Action Field Day – 18 September 2025
Following the conference, students will immerse themselves in nature for a hands-on learning experience. Guided by community mentors, they’ll take part in activities that deepen their connection to the environment and encourage them to explore ways they can actively care for Country.

Making It Accessible for Schools

To ensure as many schools as possible can take part, Kids in Action offers funding support:

Teacher Support Funding Scheme ($350) – Helps schools presenting at the conference cover costs like teacher release time, skilled mentors, or materials for their project.
New School Attendance Scheme ($350) – Supports schools that have never participated in Kids in Action before, making it easier for them to get involved. It is available within the Sunshine Coast Council region.

Participation costs are $150 per school, covering 12 student delegates (with additional students at just $10 each), ensuring the program remains an affordable and accessible opportunity.

A Program with Proven Impact

Over the years, Kids in Action has received recognition for its contribution to environmental education.

In 2019, it won the Queensland Reconciliation Award for its work with Kabi Kabi and Jinibara First Nations communities.

More recently, in 2023, it was awarded Excellence in Community Shaping at the LGMA Awards.

Published 31-Jan-2025