This article calls for child welfare to be at the forefront of civilised society. The author discusses Australia's low ranking in child well being and the concept of "Modernity's paradox", where child outcomes and youth problems are worsening despite rising economic prosperity. However, these outcomes can be avoided and are successfully addressed in other countries whose policies focus more on family support, valuing parenthood (eg. with good parental leave provisions), early childhood services and on reducing inequalties.