Premier

Supporting Koori Early Years Services

03 November 2016

Aboriginal children and families at six Aboriginal early years services delivering kindergarten will benefit from new funding by the Andrews Labor Government.

The Government is providing up to $1.6 million over the next two years for the services to implement evidence based strategies around early intervention and prevention.

This could include tailored support for children and families experiencing family violence and specialist support from allied health professionals.

The Aboriginal community-based early years services to receive this funding are:

  • Yappera Children’s Services in Thornbury
  • Berrimba Child Care Centre in Echuca
  • Lula’s Child and Family Centre in Shepparton
  • Murray Valley Aboriginal Early Learning Centre in Robinvale
  • Bubup Wilam in Thomastown
  • Dala Yooro in Bairnsdale

This work builds on the Government’s $572 million response to the Royal Commission into Family Violence, which includes $25.7 million to work with Aboriginal communities in addressing family violence.

Earlier this year, the Government’s $168 million Roadmap for Reform was introduced to shift the children and family services system from crisis response to prevention and early intervention.

It includes major investments in support services for vulnerable families, extra child protection workers, culturally sensitive support for Aboriginal children, and more foster and kinship carers, including Aboriginal carers.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos

“We’re working to help early years centres deliver much needed support services, particularly for vulnerable families experiencing family violence.”

“Investing in Aboriginal early learning centres and wrap around services directly supports families, which is vital in a child’s first five years.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins

“These services have a huge impact on the lives of Aboriginal families and their children, helping ensure they are given every chance to reach their potential.”

Quote attributable to Victorian Aboriginal Education Association General Manager Lionel Bamblett

“We encourage the Commonwealth to also support Aboriginal early years services so that all our children can experience the best possible outcomes.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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