Contributed by internship student Helen Sarcich.

CQU education students were this week encouraged to think outside the box on child welfare issues, during a talk by Acting Commissioner for Children and Young People, Barry Salmon.

Acting Commissioner Salmon spoke to 150 students and lecturers from CQU Rockhampton, as well as others via videoconference to Mackay, Gladstone and Bundaberg campuses.

Mr Salmon spoke about the role of Commission and about the importance of the role of advocate and ombudsman for children fulfilled by the Commission.

He noted the importance of ensuring there was someone to be a voice for children and to promote children's active participation in their own lives.

Mr Salmon began his career as a primary teacher and then worked with Education Queensland.

He has since been involved in a number of Ed Qld initiatives and curriculum developments, and worked as the executive director of the Commission (before moving into his current role).

Mr Salmon also said he felt it was important to promote child-friendly communities, a greater partnership between families and schools and increased support for teachers in their role as carers.

He said that the more the Commission could lift its profile and community awareness of its function, the more it could achieve for the children and young people of Queensland.

Students who took part in the forum commented that it was interesting to learn about the role of the Commission.

They also said they appreciated knowing there was support for them in their professional positions.