Communities across Australia are being called on to take action as a national campaign returns to shine a powerful spotlight on an important issue: child protection.
The award-winning Stadium of Hope campaign from child protection organisation Act for Kids invites families, businesses and communities to purchase virtual seats via the website and help fill a stadium in a united show of support.
Now in its third year, the campaign is encouraging schools, sporting clubs and community groups to get involved - with one Brisbane school already jumping on board with a heartwarming show of support.
Milton State School students gathered on their school oval to form the word 'hope' in a moving display captured on video by a drone flying overhead.
Milton State School Principal and Act for Kids Ambassador Paul Zernike said the school was proud to back the campaign.
"This is about kids supporting kids and it's a cause that is close to my heart and it's close to the hearts of our teachers," Mr Zernike said.
"Every child should be able to look to the future with hope, knowing they are safe, supported and able to thrive."
Stadium of Hope kicks off on 6 September 2026, marking the start of Child Protection Week 2026 and runs throughout September.
Act for Kids CEO Dr Katrina Lines said every dollar raised through the campaign would help fund the organisation's life-changing therapy and support services for children and families.
"Every year, the number of children impacted by trauma is the same as a packed-out crowd at Suncorp Stadium and most stadiums around Australia - that is the scale and reality of the issue Act for Kids is working to address," Dr Lines said.
"Through Act for Kids' Integrated Therapy Model, children receive wrap-around care from psychologists, occupational therapists and speech pathologists who work collaboratively to address the impacts of trauma, help children heal and support them to build happy, healthy futures."
You can support the Stadium of Hope campaign by purchasing your virtual seats for $10 each, or $40 for a family of four, via the website.
About us:
Act for Kids is a national for-purpose organisation that delivers evidence-led professional therapy and support services to children and families who have experienced or are at risk of harm.
