SHINE for Kids was proud to be involved in Behind the Sentence — an installation by artist Dr Paula Mahoney, presented by the Neighbourhood Justice Centre at Collingwood Yards for Victoria Law Week 2025.
The powerful projection brings to life the Children’s Voices research led by Monash University Associate Professor Catherine Flynn, in partnership with SHINE for Kids, released last year.
From the outset, we were excited by the opportunity to raise awareness of the impact of parental incarceration and reach audiences who may not have previously engaged with this issue.
Children with a parent in custody are often the invisible victims of crime, experiencing stigma, disadvantage and the trauma of separation — yet they receive little formal support.
The artwork was launched on Monday 19 May, alongside a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring SHINE for Kids National Practice Manager Moana Wati; Associate Professor Catherine Flynn from Monash University; Stevie Wright from SNAICC – National Voice for Our Children; lawyer and social justice advocate Vincent Shin; and Ralph Gotlib, Principal of Bindjiroo Yaluk Community School.
The event was well attended by local community members, sector partners, supporters and policymakers, and was a great success.
Behind the Sentence is free to view daily after 5:30pm until 25 May, 2025.
Highlights from the evening:
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