Toys are used by everybody to understand and explore the world around us, and to practice and rehearse ways of moving through our lives. Often, these toys are given to us. Sometimes we like them, sometimes we really like them. We might sleep with them, talk to them or throw
them around, but usually we grow out of them. What happens then? People in Australia produce over 1 tonne of waste per person per year (that's around the weight of a small car).

The Future of Toys explores ways we can turn our old toys into new things. Reflecting on our lives, our communities and our futures, we design a new invention that responds to what we need today.

Through this work, we think about the waste our communities are producing, and learn ways of being resourceful by turning this waste into valuable resources. We think about what human skills and qualities might make the world around us a better place, and invent something that brings this into reality.

With the help of artists and designers, young participants use emerging recycling technologies and design methodologies to bring to life their ideas. Through this work we hope to support young people to feel a sense of agency when facing their futures.