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Defence understands the impacts the military way of life has on ADF members and families. There are support programs available that help balance the demands of service life with the needs of families.

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Defence Families of Australia (DFA) is the official Australian Defence Force (ADF) families advisory body to the Minister for Defence Personnel and Chief of the Defence Force (CDF).

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Medical problem? Call 1800 022 222. If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately

healthdirect Australia is a free service where you can talk to a nurse or doctor who can help you know what to do.

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healthdirect Service Finder is a free service that helps you locate the nearest health services in any part of Australia. You can search for health services such as general practitioners, hospitals, dentists, psychologists, hospitals, mental health, optical, pathology, pharmacies and a wide range of others.

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We provide advice, workshops and training, and resources for community organisations, community sector professionals and early childhood educators.

We provide and workshops on:

Partnering with community

Community mapping

Small grant writing

Circle of Security Parenting

Circle of Security Classroom

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Services | Common Ground Community Consulting

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Common Ground Community Consulting services include community consultation and engagement, strategic planning and project evaluation, training and workshops, resources ad events.

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"A child's current ability doesn't define them; it simply lets us know where to start"

At Early Childhood Support, we provide mobile Key Worker support for children with a disability or developmental delay. We also offer online training for parents and caregivers. Our team of experienced therapists are dedicated to supporting your child's development.

Contact Us

Ph: 0427 433 294

Email: admin@earlychildhoodsupport.com.au

Instagram: @earlychildhood_support

Facebook: ECS - Early Childhood Support

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Early Childhood Support | Mobile NDIS Children’s Therapy

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Speech Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Psychology | Key Worker

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Disability & Developmental Delay - training and workshops through Early Childhood Support

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Disability & Developmental Delay - training and workshops through Early Childhood Support

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Early Childhood Support | Mobile NDIS Children’s Therapy

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Speech Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Psychology | Key Worker

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Circle of Security Parenting - training for parents through Early Childhood Support

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Circle of Security Parenting - training for parents through Early Childhood Support

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Early Childhood Support | Mobile NDIS Children’s Therapy

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Speech Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Psychology | Key Worker

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Circle of Security Parenting - training for parents through Common Ground

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Circle of Security Parenting - training for parents through Common Ground

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At times all parents feel lost or without a clue about what our child might need from us. Imagine what it might feel like for parents and carers if they were able to make sense of what their child was really asking from them.

Parents and carers will learn to:

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•  Understand their child’s emotional world

•  Support their child’s ability to successfully manage emotions

•  Enhance the development of their child's self esteem

•  Honour their innate wisdom and desire for their child to be secure

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Workshops | Common Ground Community Consulting

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Common Ground Community Consulting provides workshops and training for community sector professionals and early childhood educators.

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Circle of Security Classroom (CoS-C) Tier 1 training for ECEs

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Circle of Security Classroom (CoS-C) Tier 1 training for ECEs

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Imagine a classroom of children ready to learn and thrive.

The Circle of Security Classroom Approach aims to enhance educators' capacity to build secure relationships with children in early education and care (ECEC), and early stage one (primary school) settings.

It equips teachers with tools and strategies to understand children's behaviour through an attachment lens, focusing on meeting their underlying needs rather than solely addressing behaviours.

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Workshops | Common Ground Community Consulting

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Common Ground Community Consulting provides workshops and training for community sector professionals and early childhood educators.

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Early Childhood Support - inclusion training

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Early Childhood Support - inclusion training

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Early Childhood Support | Mobile NDIS Children’s Therapy

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Speech Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Psychology | Key Worker

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Early Childhood Support - Child Development Workshops

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Early Childhood Support - Child Development Workshops

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Early Childhood Support | Mobile NDIS Children’s Therapy

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Speech Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Psychology | Key Worker

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Early Childhood Support - training for ECEs

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Early Childhood Support - training for ECEs

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Training workshops such as:

Disability Awareness

Supporting Children with Developmental Delay

Sensory Processing

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Early Childhood Support | Mobile NDIS Children’s Therapy

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Speech Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Psychology | Key Worker

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Muloobinba - Newcastle and Lake Macquarie

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Muloobinba - Newcastle and Lake Macquarie

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Family Services — Muloobinba Aboriginal Corporation

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Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

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Find information about the population profile and location of your local Primary Health Network (PHN). We also link to the tools we use to determine remoteness area, workforce shortage and socioeconomic disadvantage.

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Family Services Australia - Safer Children, Stronger Families

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Family Services Australia is a young and vibrant service that works to support children, young people and their families. We exist to help families keep their children and young people safe and well.

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We acknowledge the Dharawal people who are the Traditional custodians of this land, that we meet today. We would like to pay respects to the elder’s past, present and emerging.

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Big Yellow Umbrella is a not for profit community organisation based in Narellan and serving the Camden, Campbelltown and Wollondilly LGAs.

Today, Big Yellow Umbrella provides services, programs and activities to meet the needs of all sectors of the local community. Our services include a Children’s Services program, Youth Services, and Community Development, including promoting and supporting a number of community groups since their inception.

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Welcome to Big Yellow Umbrella - Big Yellow Umbrella

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Big Yellow Umbrella provides services, programs and activities to meet the needs of all sectors of the local community. Our services include a Children’s Services program, Youth Services, and Community […]

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Bellambi Neighbourhood Centrewould like to Acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, grow and play. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.Our centre exists, and is built on our connection with Community.

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The South Coast Centre has become an integral community service for Illawarra, Shoalhaven and south coast. Our family support services are culturally inclusive of the Aboriginal community.

13 Greene St Warrawong, NSW, 2502
(02) 4275 8575

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South Coast Family Services | Barnardos Family Support Centre

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Barnardos Australia provide family support and youth services in Wollongong, Illawarra, Shoalhaven and the South Coast. Help your family recover and thrive today.

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Parents as Case Coordinators - online course for parents with children with disability

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Parents as Case Coordinators - online course for parents with children with disability

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Parents as Case Coordinators – Learning Links Hub

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Log into Facebook to start sharing and connecting with your friends, family, and people you know.

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We understand the unique challenges of parenting a child with a developmental concern or disability. Our mission is to provide you with a compassionate space where you can learn, grow, and find the resources you need to thrive. Together, we can build a community of empowered parents, caregivers, and families who support one another on this incredible journey.

Through our collaborative workshops, led by early childhood professionals and experienced caregiver peers, you'll have the opportunity to share stories, exchange insights, and discover strategies that can truly make a difference in your daily life. Our extensive online resources, information, and tools are also here to support you as you navigate the joys and complexities of raising a child with developmental concerns or disabilities. Most importantly, ENVISAGE is a place of connection.

You'll have the chance to interact with other families who understand your journey, forming connections based on shared experiences and mutual understanding. At ENVISAGE, your wellbeing and that of your family is at the heart of everything we do. Join us at ENVISAGE and let's create a future filled with hope, support, and limitless possibilities for our extraordinary children.

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We understand the unique challenges of parenting a child with a developmental concern or disability, and our mission is to provide you with a compassionate space where you can learn, grow, and find the resources you need to thrive.

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Learn about the free Koori Preschool program for children aged from birth to 5, find a preschool and apply.

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Map for parents

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Milestones Matter brochure in community languages

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Milestones Matter brochure in community languages

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The Milestones Matter brochure helps parents keep track of their child’s developmental milestones and has information on where to seek help early if parents have concerns about how their child is growing, developing or behaving.

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The Learn the Signs. Act Early. milestone checklists in the Blue Book help parents track their child's developmental milestones.

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A NEW WAY OF WORKING TOGETHER

Closing the Gap acknowledges the ongoing strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in sustaining the world's oldest living cultures.

Closing the Gap is underpinned by the belief that when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a genuine say in the design and delivery of policies, programs and services that affect them, better life outcomes are achieved. It also recognises that structural change in the way governments work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is needed to close the gap.

All Australian governments are working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, their communities, organisations and businesses to implement the new National Agreement on Closing the Gap at the national, state and territory, and local levels.

This is an unprecedented shift in the way governments have previously worked to close the gap. It acknowledges that to close the gap, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people must determine, drive and own the desired outcomes, alongside all governments.

This new way of working requires governments to build on the strong foundations Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have, through their deep connection to family, community and culture.

Implementation Plans have been developed and delivered by each party to the National Agreement, in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander partners. They set out how policies and programs are aligned to the National Agreement and what actions will be taken to achieve the Priority Reforms and outcomes.

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Closing the Gap acknowledges the ongoing strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in sustaining the world’s oldest living cultures.

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Educator Notes - Acknowledgement of Country

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Educator Notes - Acknowledgement of Country

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Acknowledgement of Country

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In this special episode, presenters Luke Carroll, Miranda Tapsell and Hunter Page-Lochard give an Acknowledgement of Country celebrating Australia's first people.

The joyful provocations throughout this episode share knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and highlight the importance of caring for Country together. The stories, songs, music, dance and creative projects included can extend perspectives around Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture for young children and their families.

How to watch Play School: Acknowledgement of Country

ABC iview
Play School: Acknowledgement of Country can be viewed on ABC iview.
Watch Play School: Acknowledgement of Country on ABC iview

ABC KIDS iview
Play School: Acknowledgement of Country is also available on ABC KIDS iview.

Educator Notes

You'll find information about everything featured in this special in the Acknowledgement of Country - Educator Notes (PDF).

Song: "Hand in Hand" from Acknowledgement of Country

'Hand In Hand' incorporates the words and actions of Aunty Tracey Linn Bostock - a descendant of the Bundjalung Nation which is her Grandmother's and Grandfather's Country.
Download the sheet music for 'Hand in Hand'.

Presenters share their highlight

Presenters reflect on the cultural significance of the special

Meet Kiya, the newest Play School friend

Kiya is from Noongar country, in the southern corner of Western Australia.

Kiya's first Play School appearance is in the Acknowledgement of Country Special and she will be included in upcoming episodes along with the rest of our Play School favourites.

Looking for more Play School?

Full episodes of Play School are available to watch online now.

Visit the Play School show page for more Play School fun and information.

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Play School's Acknowledgement of Country - ABC Kids

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In this special episode, presenters Luke Carroll, Miranda Tapsell and Hunter Page-Lochard give an Acknowledgement of Country celebrating Australia's first people. The joyful provocations throughout this episode share knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and highlight the importance of caring for Country together.

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What is Country?

'Country is everything. It's family, it's life, it's connection'. - Jude Barlow, Ngunnawal Elder

Country is the term often used by Aboriginal peoples to describe the lands, waterways and seas to which they are connected. The term contains complex ideas about law, place, custom, language, spiritual belief, cultural practice, material sustenance, family and identity.

Jude Barlow talks about what Country means to her.

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'Country is everything. It's family, it's life, it's connection'. - Jude Barlow, Ngunnawal Elder Country is the term often used by Aboriginal peoples to describe the lands, waterways and seas to which they are connected. The term contains complex ideas about law, place, custom, language, spiritual belief, cultural practice, material sustenance, family and identity.

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Australian Institute of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Studies

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Australian Institute of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Studies

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AIATSIS acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Traditional Custodians of Country and recognises their continuing connection to land, sea, culture and community. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

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We are Australia's only national institution focused exclusively on the diverse history, cultures and heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australia.

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SUPPORTING STOLEN GENERATIONS SURVIVORS, FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES

The Healing Foundation is a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation that provides a platform to amplify the voices and lived experience of Stolen Generations survivors and their families.

We work with communities to create a place of safety, providing an environment for Stolen Generations survivors and their families to speak for themselves, tell their own stories, and be in charge of their own healing.

We promote trauma-aware, healing-informed practice to help government, policymakers, and workforces understand their role in intergenerational healing.

By addressing unresolved trauma in First Nations communities - trauma that was caused by colonisation and actions like the forced removal of children - we are walking alongside communities on the path to healing.

We are governed by a First Nations Board and Executive and guided in our work by our Stolen Generations and Youth Reference Groups.

Our work honours our First Nations ancestors and our future generations.

Strong Spirit · Strong Culture · Strong People

Latest Resources

The Healing Foundation has a variety of resources available for download.
Learn more

LatestNews & Stories

See what the Healing Foundation and the projects we support around Australia have been up to.

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Message: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of people who have passed away.

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The Healing Foundation is currently updating this website with new data from the Make Healing Happen report. Please see the
full report for the most up-to-date data.

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The Healing Foundation | Supporting the healing of Stolen Generations survivors, families and communities

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We are an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation supporting the healing of Stolen Generations survivors, families and communities.

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February 13 each year marks the anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations, who suffered trauma because of past government policies of forced child removal.

Many of these removals occurred as the result of laws and policies aimed at assimilating the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population into the predominately white community.

Stolen Generations survivors are some of Australia's most vulnerable people and many have kept their stories and experiences secret for many years, even decades.

Through hearing the resilient stories of Stolen Generations survivors there is now a willingness for Australians to join in on the healing journey. To be part of solutions into the future. This is the spirit of the anniversary.

Watch the story of Stolen Generations survivor Aunty Julie Black, a 64-year-old Barkindji woman, who was taken from her mother shortly after birth.

Aunty Julie's story is heart breaking and courageous and reminds us that behind the Stolen Generations policies there were people, and children, who are still alive and in need of support.

We commemorate the apology to keep the spirit of its words and their meaning alive. The commemoration is a very real part of the healing journey. One that encourages us to keep looking for new ways to work together for genuine change in the lives of our survivors and their descendants. - CEO, The Healing Foundation, Fiona Petersen

The Healing Foundation CEO Fiona Petersen attended an Apology breakfast at Parliament house in Canberra, with Stolen Generation Reference Group members Maisie Austin and David Wragge, and Youth Reference Group member Harry Williams.

Message: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of people who have passed away.

The Healing Foundation is currently updating this website with new data from the Make Healing Happen report. Please see the
full report for the most up-to-date data.

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February 13 each year marks the anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations, who suffered trauma because of past government policies of forced child removal. Many of these removals occurred as the result of laws and policies aimed at assimilating the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population into the predominately white community.

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Observed annually on 26 May, National Sorry Day remembers and acknowledges the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were forcibly removed from their families and communities, which we now know as 'The Stolen Generations'.

National Sorry Day is a day to acknowledge the strength of Stolen Generations Survivors and reflect on how we can all play a part in the healing process for our people and nation. While this date carries great significance for the Stolen Generations and other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, it is also commemorated by Australians right around the country.

The first National Sorry Day was held on 26 May 1998, one year after the Bringing Them Home report was tabled in Parliament. The Bringing Them Home report is a result of a Government Inquiry into the past policies which caused children to be removed from their families and communities in the 20 th century.

Following this, in 2000, there was one issue that was high on the agenda at the Sydney Harbour Bridge walk for reconciliation - an apology to the Stolen Generations.

It was also high in the sky, when a group of people - independent to the organisation of the walk - had the word 'Sorry' written in the clear blue skies above the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Such was the intensity of feeling and support for Stolen Generations members - many of whom were among the huge crowd that day.

Today, twenty-three years after the Bringing Them Home report and twelve years since the National Apology, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are still 10.6 times more likely than non-Indigenous children to be removed from their families.

We cannot begin to fix the problems of the present without accepting the truth of our history. Sorry Day asks us to acknowledge the Stolen Generations, and in doing so, reminds us that historical injustice is still an ongoing source of intergenerational trauma for Aboriginal and Torres Islander families, communities, and peoples.
THE JOURNEY CONTINUES... Image: News Ltd HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED
Since the establishment of Sorry Day, we now recognise another important milestone in Australia's history on this date. On 26 May, 2017, at the conclusion of the 2017 First Nations National Constitutional Convention at Uluru, council member Megan Davis delivered the Uluru Statement from the Heart, a consensus document on constitutional recognition, developed by a 16-member Referendum Council of Indigenous and non-Indigenous community leaders. Over a six-month period the council travelled to 12 different locations around Australia and met with over 1,200 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives. The meetings resulted in a consensus document on constitutional recognition, the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

The Healing Foundation is a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation that partners with communities to address the ongoing trauma caused by actions like the forced removal of children from their families.

Hear the Ngangkarri Women's Group message of strength, resilience and healing sang for Stolen Generations, families and communities at the Healing Foundation website.

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National Sorry Day 2020 | Reconciliation Australia

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Observed annually on 26 May, National Sorry Day remembers and acknowledges the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were forcibly removed from their families and communities, which we now know as 'The Stolen Generations'. National Sorry Day is a day to acknowledge the strength of Stolen Generations Survivors and reflect on how [...]

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SNAICC - National Voice for our Children

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National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day is held annually on 4 August and is our day dedicated to celebrating our children.

As Children's Day 2024 falls on a Sunday, services and organisations are encouraged to hold their events on Friday, 2 August to be inclusive of children, early years services and schools.

The 2024 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day theme Strong in Culture, Stronger Together elevates the intention of Children's Day, focusing on the strength of our children that comes from their connection to culture and mob.

This year we stand with our children, proud of their culture, stories, kin and community - all that makes our children special, resilient and the bright leaders of our future. We hope that this year's Children's Day theme empowers our children, making them feel proud of who they are and where they come from. Showing them that their culture is one of the most sacred, strong and important assets that they can have.

If our children are strong in culture, then they are strong in their identity, and this is important for future generations to come.

Children's Day 2024 falls on a Sunday. We are encouraging services and centres to hold their Children's Day events on Friday, 2 August. 4 August will still be marked and recognised as the date for Children's Day, however, we encourage celebrations to happen on a weekday to be inclusive of children, early years services and schools.

Register your event to showcase your celebrations and keep up to date with news and resources.

Register your Children's Day event

National Children's Day gives all Australians the opportunity to show their support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and learn about the impact that culture, family and community play in the life of every child.

What is Children's Day?

Each year, hundreds of early years and childhood education centres around Australia host events to celebrate the day. Your event could happen at your workplace, school or kindergarten or in partnership with a local Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander organisation or community.

Celebrate Children's Day

A collection of resources to help us all create a national atmosphere of celebration, respect and recognition by getting together with your family and community and sharing your support online.

Children's Day resources

View all of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day events that are taking place across Australia this year.

View the 2024 events

Organising an event for your mob?
This year's Children's Day falls on a Sunday. We are encouraging services and centres to hold their events on Friday 2 August. Register your event to showcase your celebrations and keep up to date with news and any resources.

Register your event

Children's Day 2024 book: Wamparla Apiṟa

Arabana Elder Thanthi Syd Strangways tells the fascinating story of Wampala Apiṟa, Possums and Tall Trees, in both Arabana and English, with beautiful illustrations by Kathy Arbon. In the book, it is described how people climb apiṟa (tall trees) to hunt wamparla (possums) for clothing and food. Thanthi Syd writes that hunting is not permitted everywhere by elders, describing that in an area called Yarripulanha, there are few possums and they are considered sacred. When Thanti Syd was a child, they would camp and go possum hunting for food and clothing with their grandparent and other Arabana tribespeople.

The book is a valuable addition to the Arabana peoples of northern South Australia and their Wangka (language) resources. Thanthi Syd Strangeways and Kathy Arbon are of the Arabana peoples from South Australia. Wamparla Apiṟa is Thanthi's first book, Kathy created the book Can You Dance? with Sally Morgan.

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation and SNAICC continue to work together to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children by providing access to cultural resources and literature. We would like to thank the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, we enjoy working together every year to bring Aboriginal languages to children across the country.

Indigenous Literacy Foundation: Wamparla Apiṟa

Information on this year's Children's Day bags

We are excited to be providing 20,000 Children's Day bags to communities!

We've heard our communities and we are very excited to be able to increase the bags we produce each year so that you don't miss out!

The bags are filled with activities, games and resources to help preschoolers, or children between the ages of three and five, develop a love of learning and play. We will start accepting orders for the bags in May, with delivery planned for June 2024. Due to high demand, pre-orders will be made available to SNAICC Members before being made available to all other supporters.

We will send more information out in May, so keep an eye out and be sure to sign up to our mailing list below.

Subscribe to the SNAICC mailing list

August 2023
A collection of National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day Activity Kits from 2023 for Educators and Families.

Download

August 2006
A collection of National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day Activity Kits for Educators and Families.

Download

August 2023
Downloadable poster for National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day 2023.

Download

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Become a member today and add your voice to the cause.

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National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day, held annually 4 August, is our day dedicated to celebrating our children.

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https://www.naidoc.org.au/

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Welcome to NAIDOC.

We acknowledge all First Peoples of the beautiful lands on which we live and celebrate their enduring knowledge and connections to Country. We honour the wisdom of and pay respect to Elders past and present.

Continue

National NAIDOC Week 2023

The National NAIDOC Committee has announced NAIDOC Week celebrations will be held from 2 - 9 July 2023.
Read more

Local Events

NAIDOC Logos

NAIDOC Awards Ceremony

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Welcome to NAIDOC. We acknowledge all First Peoples of the beautiful lands on which we live and celebrate their enduring knowledge and connections to Country. We honour the wisdom of and pay respect to Elders past and present. Continue The National NAIDOC Committee has announced NAIDOC Week celebrations will be held from 2 - 9 July 2023.

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Paul Girrawah House has multiple First Nation ancestries from the South-East Canberra region, including the Ngambri-Ngurmal (Walgalu), Pajong (Gundungurra), Wallabollooa (Ngunnawal) and Erambie/Brungle (Wiradyuri) family groups.

Paul acknowledges his diverse First Nation history, he particularly identifies as a descendant of Onyong aka Jindoomang from Weereewaa (Lake George) and Henry 'Black Harry' Williams from Namadgi who were both multilingual, essentially Walgalu-Ngunnawal-Wiradjuri speaking warriors and Ngunnawal-Wallaballooa man William Lane aka 'Billy the Bull' - Murrjinille.

Paul was born at the old Canberra hospital in the centre of his ancestral country and strongly acknowledges his First Nation matriarch ancestors, in particular his mother Dr Aunty Matilda House-Williams and grandmother, Ms Pearl Simpson-Wedge.

Paul completed a Bachelor of Community Management from Macquarie University, and Graduate Certificate in Wiradjuri Language, Culture and Heritage and Management from CSU.

Paul provided the Welcome to Country for the 47th Opening of Federal Parliament in 2022. Paul is Board Director, Ngambri Local Aboriginal Land Council, Member Indigenous Reference Group, National Museum of Australia and Australian Government Voice Referendum Engagement Group.

Paul works on country with the ANU, First Nations Portfolio as a Senior Community Engagement Officer

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NRW2023 theme: Be a Voice for Generations

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The theme for National Reconciliation Week, Be a Voice for Generations, encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives - where we live, work and socialise.

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Deadly Tots Project, Sydney. 874 likes. The Deadly Tots Project provides info on childrens social, emotional and intellectual development

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Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Hub Australia

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Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Hub Australia

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Stay connected

Join our mailing list to hear more from the FASD Hub, including our monthly newsletters, webinar invitations, and new publications.

Acknowledgement of Country

FASD Hub Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and we recognise their connections to land, water and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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Bringing together the latest evidence-based resources and research about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in Australia.

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The creators of WellMob acknowledge all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across this country. We recognise our continuing connection to country and kin despite the impact of colonisation. We pay respect to our ancestors and Elders past, present and emerging.

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Social, emotional and cultural wellbeing online resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People

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App for parents

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‎The Deadly Tots App has been developed by South Western Sydney Local Health District, Resourcing Parents with the support of funding from the Office of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health. Deadly Tots App contains information for every Aboriginal Family to help their Bub learn and grow.…

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NSW Health

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Best Practice Early Childhood Early Intervention

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Best Practice Early Childhood Early Intervention

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How do you know you are engaging with a quality service in ECI? - Early Childhood Intervention Australia Victoria/Tasmania

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Early Childhood Intervention Australia Victoria/Tasmania (ECIA VIC/TAS) is a not-for-profit charity supporting ECI practitioners and organisations to provide quality services and supports for young children with disability and/or developmental delay and their families.

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To plan for these changes to make the ASRC sustainable into the future:

The Footscray centre will close to all visitors every Wednesday.

Every Friday, some services will be closed but the Foodbank, Health, Legal and Hub services will remain open.

To access our services, you can phone 03 9326 6066 or come to the ASRC Footscray in person during opening hours.

The Reception Team will greet you and link you with our services.

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Help Refugees and People Seeking Asylum in our Australian Communities

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You can help refugees and people seeking asylum in Australia by making a generous donation or by taking action. There are many ways to help, join us today!

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First 5 Forever | State Library Of Queensland

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Talk, sing, read, play - everyday

The research shows that the first 5 years last a lifetime. When children are encouraged to talk, read, sing and play, every day, these positive interactions help build a strong foundation that sets them up for educative success and a lifelong love of learning. First 5 Forever makes it easy to give your child the best possible start.

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In their first years of life your child's brain forms over one million new connections every second. Research shows the first five years last a lifetime and that simple, everyday activities with you help to make these connections strong.

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If you need parenting advice and support, this guide has phone numbers for state and national parent helplines and parent hotlines.

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Resources for parents and families — workshops, webinars, events and more.

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Support for you and your child in your first 5 years of settling in Australia

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The effect of trauma on the brain development of children

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The effect of trauma on the brain development of children

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Key organisations for working with culturally and linguistically diverse families

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This CFCA resource sheet is a directory of key organisations and resources for practitioners and service providers working with families and children from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.

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We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of South Australia and recognise their continuing connection to Country, culture and community.

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Who are we?

Communities for Children facilitates a whole of community approach to provide early childhood development initiatives, supporting and enhancing development needs of children aged 0 to 12 years.

We use a place based approach and work with children, families and other organisations to shape program and service delivery.

As a CfC Facilitating Partner, we aim to provide support to the local community by partnering with community services to deliver programs and supports as well as capacity build through community participation and voice.

Research has found that money directed to programs through Communities for Children returns a community benefit three times the investment.

Read the Social Return on Investment study her e.

What do we do?

We support the wellbeing of children and families by:

Working with parents and children to build child-friendly spaces within community

Funding other community organisations to deliver services including parenting support, home visits, community events and life skills courses

Building on local strengths to meet local community needs

Creating capability within local services systems

Using strong evidence of what works in the early years of life

As a Communities for Children Facilitating Partner, we take an early intervention approach that supports families to enhance the way they relate to each other, improve parenting skills, and ensure the health and wellbeing of children.

Our work in the community

View our community collaborations below.

This project creates a fun and colourful composition of children's images that is used to communicate and promote the things they consider important to them.
More info: View the online art exhibition

A whole of community approach to read, talk, sing, draw and rhyme from birth, and to prepare children for reading and writing at school.
More info:

A network of service providers, educators and government representatives providing services to families with children in the west.
More info:

Working with schools

We work with local primary schools to bring young people together to share ideas and to celebrate their community.

Recent projects include:

Children's Parliament 'Change Makers'
Students are encouraged to get involved to share their big ideas, discuss challenges facing their school or community and create real solutions. Students learn about the democratic process by identifying an issue and campaigning for change. The campaign is run by young people for young people. They also learn skills in team building, public speaking, and leadership in a fun and supported environment.

Time capsule
Students create a message for posterity for their future selves and others. Posters produced expressing what's important to them and their local community. Pieces will be displayed in an exhibition before being locked away in a "time capsule" to be opened in the future. Students will learn more about their local community and enhance a sense of community identity and belonging.

Community Events

We are involved in a number of events to bring community together through the year, including:

National Families Week

Reconciliation In The West

Man With a Pram

Children's Week

Find out more by calling us on (08) 8440 2299 or emailing our friendly team at cfc@unitingsa.com.au.

A key part of UnitingSA's role as a Communities for Children (CfC) Facilitating Partner is to identify and fund CfC Community Partners, who can deliver programs to help address the needs of children and families in the region.

We are excited to announce our Communities for Children tender process for North West Adelaide is complete and we have selected our Community Partners for 2022-2024, who will deliver activities and programs to support children and their families, in alignment with the objectives of our Community Strategic Plan 2022-2026.

We received many high quality applications from organisations across the City of Port Adelaide Enfield and City of Charles Sturt, and are delighted to support the following Community Partners' initiatives.

Community Partner

Program Description

Contact/Phone Number
Playgroup SA
Providing evidence-based playgroups to support parents to understand more about how children learn, and improve knowledge and skills relating to child development.
(08) 8344 2722
1800 171 882

"I am really happy and grateful to the homework club and to all the volunteers."
Participant from The Smith Family

"I cannot speak highly enough of the very noticeable positive impact this program has had on our lives, since given the opportunity to join this program. I cannot emphasise enough how impressed I was with the valuable service that we were so fortunate to have access to. They have been able to introduce our family to support services, parenting tools and knowledge that have helped us adjust to our new lives as parents."
Participant from Central Adelaide Local Health Network

The course has been very enlightening as my son is so young I am glad I have had this course. I can see it being incredibly useful as he grows up."
Participant from UnitingCare Wesley Bowden

Nobody can do everything but everyone can do something.

UnitingSA relies on the generosity of donors to help deliver innovative programs and support for people in need across metropolitan and regional South Australia.

"I was in such a dark place for years and my mental health issues meant I couldn't see anything straight. With the help of my support worker, I started to feel comfortable in my own skin and now I am even working again. I will always remember how I recovered with the help I received through UnitingSA."

Hiroko,
Received support from Mental Health Services

Call Now!

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We provide early childhood development initiatives that support the health & early development needs of young children 0-12 years. Call Today.

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Communities for children offers free activities to enhance early learning, family well-being, and community connections. Join us today.

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Community Driven, Inclusive Learning | Thebarton | Underdale

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In 1803, 100% of lutruwita, its islands and sea were owned by palawa/pakana people, the original Tasmanians. For over 40,000 years, Aboriginal people maintained and sustainably managed lutruwita, its land and sea.

History demonstrates that all that changed - suddenly and catastrophically for our people.

Aboriginal people who survived the Black War were exiled to offshore islands to languish in squalid conditions.

Some were deceived, promised return to their ancestral lands by Conciliator George Augustus Robinson on behalf of the Governor he represented.

Too many died.
In the end, all of Tasmania was appropriated by the Crown.
Despite Robinson's treaty, much of this land was then given away in land grants. Over time, it has been subdivided and registered as private freehold titles.
Not one was ever ceded.
Today, every one of these titles is privately owned. They're owned by everday people, family businesses, companies and trusts.

All hold Aboriginal values and significance to Aboriginal people and we're seeking your help to get some back.
We're not here to take it, beacuse that's what happend to us. We're here to ask for your help, to buy some back and restore some justice.

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Giving Land Back | Aboriginal Land Council of Tasmania

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In 1803, 100% of lutruwita, its islands and sea were owned by palawa/pakana people, the original Tasmanians. For over 40,000 years, Aboriginal people maintained and sustainably managed lutruwita, its land and sea. History demonstrates that all that changed - suddenly and catastrophically for our people.

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Our activities can help enhance your parenting, support your family relationships and help you get to know the services and resources that Burnie has to offer.

The Burnie Communities for Children's Delivery Partners are funded to do the direct delivery of services for children aged 0 - 12years and their families in the local Burnie community.
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Program: Helping Young Families - Key Worker Program

Description: Working together to offer parents, particularly those not engaged in school or work, with structure throughout the week alongside intensive tailored support for those continuing to struggle with social or educational engagement.

Delivery Partners: Youth Family and Community Connections (YFCC)

Contact: Jacqui Conroy 6423 6635 or jacquic@yfcc.com.au
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Program: Helping Young Families - Parenting Programs

Description: Delivering parenting program workshops, with the primary objective of providing early intervention to improve the health and wellbeing of families and the development of young children. Parenting Programs include: Circle of Security, 1-2-3 Magic and Emotion Coaching, Abecedarian Approach (3a) and Bringing up Great Kids.

Delivery Partner: Youth Family and Community Connections (YFCC)

Contact: Jacqui Conroy 6423 6635 or jacquic@yfcc.com.au
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Program: Curious Chefs

Description: the 4 programs in Curious Chefs focus on building health and food literacy within within families experiencing disadvantage and other families that have little or limited knowledge around positive nutritional outcomes based on the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating

My Family Food Pantry

Kids in the Kitchen

Summer Holidays - Growing Dinner Together

No Bake Under 5's Bernie's Lounge @ Burnie Library

Delivery Partner: Burnie Community House Inc.

Contact: Shandel Pile 6433 3219 or projectofficer@burniecommunityhouse.com.au
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Program: Dads Matter

Description: The Dads Matter program has a counsellor that provides an environment where fathers can genuinely share their experiences of parenthood and grow and learn to become better more supportive and engaged parents for their children, partners and families.

Delivery Partner: Rural Health Tasmania

Contact: Brad Carter 6430 4222 or bcarter@ruralhealthtas.com.au

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Communities for Children also participates in Community Small Grants. Click here for more information

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Our activities can help enhance your parenting, support your family relationships and help you get to know the services and resources that Burnie has to offer. The Burnie Communities for Children's Delivery Partners are funded to do the direct delivery of services for children aged 0 - 12years and their families in the local Burnie community.

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Communities for Children (CfC) initiative in Launceston and the Tamar Valley. Facilitated by Anglicare Tasmania.

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Providing inclusion support to early childhood education and care services in NSW and the ACT

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Welcome to Lady Gowrie Tasmania Lady Gowrie Tasmania has a simple position statement – ‘Children First’ – and is committed to providing the highest quality education and care for children to give them the best start in life. We work in partnerships with families, early to middle childhood professionals and the broader community to ensure children are happy, healthy […]

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Funding for your cause is closer than you think. Our grants assist local communities to unite and prosper, while our scholarships support local students to thrive.

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Access to family support services such as family violence, child protection, counselling, and community playgroups.

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Parent support in Victoria | Service Victoria

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Find essential services, programs and help throughout your parenting journey

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The Australian Government Communities for Children provides vital funds to Windermere to work with community partners and Cranbourne families who are doing it tough to help them achieve positive change in their lives.

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Projects View our projects with our community partners. Early Years Family Violence Training Self-paced training for professionals in the prevention and response to Domestic Violence. Resources Explore a wide range of resources to help you with early childhood learning and needs. For Parents Resources

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Creating strong, child-friendly communities

The Greater Shepparton Communities for Children program identifies and funds local projects for children and families in the community, to improve their health and wellbeing.

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Communities for Children - CatholicCare Victoria

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Creating strong, child-friendly communities in Greater Shepparton.

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Communities for Children (CfC) - Facilitating Partner - Greater Dandenong + 3177

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We assist children and families who are experiencing vulnerabilities, at risk of experiencing vulnerabilities or who are socially isolated.

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Supporting disadvantaged children in Brimbank

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Learn how The Smith Family’s Brimbank based programs are improving the lives of disadvantaged children.

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Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council | Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council

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Helping the community respect and understand Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and Traditional Owner responsibilities.

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We provide inclusion support to early and middle childhood education and care services, under the government's Inclusion Support Program (ISP). Our service is free.

We can work with your service and educators to support inclusive practice and remove barriers for children with additional needs.

Our vision is a future where all Victorian children can meaningfully and actively participate in a service of their family's choice in their community.

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Victorian Inclusion Agency | Access Inclusion Support

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The Victorian Inclusion Agency provides free support to early and middle childhood education and care services under the Inclusion Support Program (ISP).

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Communities for Children Alice Springs - Anglicare NT

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Communities for Children Alice Springs facilitates a whole-of-community approach to support early childhood development and wellbeing, with a focus on children from birth to 12 years and can include children up to 18 years and their families.

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Communities for Children | Melaleuca Australia

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Children are our most precious resource. They represent our greatest hopes for a better, more joyful and inspiring future. That’s why it’s up to all of us – families, friends, communities, organisations and governments – to ensure they experience the best possible start in life, so they can reach their truest, highest potential. Communities for Children is an important program in optimising their journey.

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Supporting disadvantaged children in Katherine

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Learn how The Smith Family’s Katherine based programs are improving the lives of disadvantaged children.

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Swan Communities for Children is a ‘place based’ initiative funded by the Department of Social Services. Swan CfC is delivered by Ngala as the Facilitating Partner delivering the Communities for Children initiative within the Swan Local Government Area.

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Parenting Support Mount Barker | Communities for Children

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We help families in Mount Barker with parenting, financial and life skills. We also provide access to peer group support and connections with local service

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Using a whole-of-community approach to support children’s development and wellbeing

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Supporting disadvantaged children in Mirrabooka

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Learn how The Smith Family’s Mirrabooka based programs are improving the lives of disadvantaged children.

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Supporting disadvantaged children in Kwinana

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Learn how The Smith Family’s Kwinana based programs are improving the lives of disadvantaged children.

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Learn how The Smith Family’s child and parent centres at Westminster and Roseworth in Western Australia are are improving the lives of disadvantaged children.

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State-wide Early Years Network Directory

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Contact details for Early Years Networks across Western Australia.

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The WA Inclusion Agency ensures that all Western Australian children can be included in Early Childhood Education and Care services.

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Child, Youth & Family | MacKillop Family Services

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Empowering children, young people and families so they can heal from past trauma and develop to their potential.

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Penrith Support Centre For Youth & Families | Barnardos

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Find local Youth & Parenting Services at Barnardos Penrith Children’s Centre. Contact us today to find out how we can support and assist you and your family.

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Children's Services Canberra | Barnardos Australia Family Centre

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Barnardos Family & Youth Centre in Canberra offers Children's Services and Parenting Support for local families. Contact us today to get the help you need.

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We provide support for families in the ACT currently at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness.