In Nepal, more than a year after twin devastating earthquakes killed thousands and obliterated large parts of the country, Plan International is continuing its crucial task of rebuilding schools and running safe spaces for children.

Unfortunately, we continue to receive reports of children being forced into labour. It is estimated some 1.2 million children, some as young as five, are working in Nepal.

This is the sad reality of what can happen in a developing country following a large-scale disaster. Families lose their livelihood and children are pulled out of school to work to survive. Children who have been orphaned are particularly at risk, as they may be forced to work or coerced and trafficked by corrupt individuals and organisations.

It's hard to confront, but it's essential we don't turn our backs on these kids. It may have been 14 months since the earthquake tore their lives apart, but we mustn't forget them.

The good news is that every day Australians do have the power to help get children back to the classroom so they can enjoy their right to childhood. You can get involved in supporting Plan International Australia's work to create child safe spaces, to intercept when children are at risk of being trafficked and to remove children from work and get them back to school where they belong.

Ian Wishart, chief executive, Plan International Australia.