Hobart’s new Children’s Mayor’s powerful message
Published on 22 October 2025
Twelve-year-old Noah Dobson from Lenah Valley Primary School has been named the City of Hobart’s 2026 Children’s Mayor, thanks to his powerful and personal submission calling for communication boards in every playground across Hobart.
Noah’s idea aims to make public spaces more inclusive for non-speaking community members, inspired by his two younger brothers who rely on AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices to communicate (an example pictured above).
His proposal would see universally recognised symbols—such as “hungry,” “home,” and “swing”—installed in playgrounds to help children express themselves, even without a device.
“Right now, there’s only one communication board in the entire Hobart City Council area, and it’s hard to see and very limited,” Noah wrote.
“If my idea was in every playground in Hobart, then any playground my brothers—and hundreds of other non-speaking people—go to, they can have a say on what they do, or they can tell their family how they feel.”
The Children’s Mayor competition is part of the City of Hobart’s commitment to engaging young people in civic life. It provides a platform for students to share their vision for the future, contribute ideas, and connect with local government decision-making.
Joining Noah in the leadership team is Ellie Huxtable, 12, from Mount Carmel College, who has been named Deputy Children’s Mayor for 2026 for her submission “A historic scavenger hunt.” Kate Crawford from Lansdowne Crescent School and Ethan Burman from Lenah Valley Primary School received Highly Commended recognition for their thoughtful submissions.
The announcement was made at Hobart Town Hall, with Interim Commissioner for Children and Young People Isabelle Crompton in attendance to celebrate the achievements of all entrants. The City received a strong number of entries this year, reflecting the growing interest among young people in shaping their city’s future.
Quotes to be attributed to Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds:
“Noah’s idea is a brilliant example of how young people can lead with empathy and insight.
“He’s shown us how local government can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, and why it’s so important to listen to the voices of children in our community.
“Children are often overlooked in public discourse, yet the decisions we make today will shape the world they inherit.
“This program ensures their voices are heard, valued, and acted upon.
“We’re incredibly proud of all the students who took part.
“Their ideas reflect the creativity, compassion and civic mindedness we want to nurture in Hobart’s next generation.”