The Andrews Labor Government is funding vital research into an early intervention program that works with some of our most vulnerable children.
Minister for Families & Children, Jenny Mikakos, today announced that the Labor Government would provide $250,000 over three years for two research projects to evaluate a unique childcare program in West Heidelberg that works with children aged 0-4 years who have experienced, or are at risk of, abuse or neglect.
The Early Years Education Research Project is a pilot program that has been run by the Children’s Protection Society since 2010.
The longitudinal research is looking at the impact of high-quality early education services and attachment-focused childcare, where a child is encouraged to form an attachment with one particular carer.
A cost-benefit analysis of the project is being conducted by the University of Melbourne’s School of Economics. Charles Sturt University researchers are looking at the relationship between the children and their teachers.
The research has previously been supported by an Australian Research Council grant and philanthropic trusts and individuals.
Preliminary findings are expected in 2016-17.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families & Children, Jenny Mikakos
“The Liberals let the funding for this ground-breaking research lapse, and the Labor Government is proud to reinstate it.”
“We’re getting the best evidence about how to protect our most vulnerable children.”
“This is an innovative program that offers fresh ideas for supporting children who are at risk of harm.”
“The Children’s Protection Society is widely acknowledged as being one of Melbourne’s leading child protection agencies and I look forward to reading the results of this important research.”
Quotes attributable to Children’s Protection Society CEO, Aileen Ashford
“We are delighted with the commitment from the Andrews Government to assist with the funding for this ground-breaking and innovative research project.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020