Australia’s government has taken a proactive step towards child safety with the launch of My superhero voice, a children’s storybook available in ten languages. Designed to help parents and caregivers discuss body safety while empowering children, the book also encourages open conversations around the sensitive subject of child sexual abuse in a culturally sensitive and age-appropriate manner.
Unveiled in Melbourne late last year by Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, the event marked a significant moment for communities across the country. Targeted at children aged 3 to 5, the story introduces Nour, a character navigating diverse cultural traditions while learning how to use her voice to seek help when something feels unsafe.
Dreyfus highlighted the book’s potential to support communities in preventing child sexual abuse, describing it as a resource that bridges communication gaps. Author Yvonne Sewenkambo read from the book at the launch, reflecting on its creation. The event saw participation from representatives of the National Office for Child Safety, community organisations, and multicultural media.
The storybook extends beyond words—it embodies representation. By featuring characters from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds, My superhero voice fosters a sense of connection for children. Sarah Migliorino, Director of Communications at Cultural Perspectives, emphasised the importance of addressing cultural nuances when tackling such a complex issue. She remarked that providing parents with inclusive resources fosters trust and understanding, paving the way for open conversations.
Now available as an eBook on ChildSafety.gov.au, the book has been translated into Arabic, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Farsi, Hazaragi, Khmer, Korean, Punjabi, Thai, and Vietnamese. Its core message remains universal: a child’s voice can be their greatest strength. Sewenkambo expressed pride in developing a story that frames courage and safety in an accessible and empowering way.
For those seeking the Punjabi edition, it is available here: www.childsafety.gov.au/resources/my-superhero-voice-punjabi
Building on the government’s One Talk at a Time campaign, launched in October 2023, My superhero voice encourages communities to break the silence and stigma surrounding child sexual abuse. The campaign’s materials, available on ChildSafety.gov.au, provide additional support for adults initiating these vital conversations, with fact sheets and information also accessible in Punjabi.
By celebrating the power of storytelling, My superhero voice equips children and families with tools to foster understanding and resilience. It is more than just a book—it is a call to action for communities to speak, listen, and protect, one voice at a time.
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