First Nations Telegraph

SNAICC – National Voice for our Children launches 11 profiles showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled organisations who are successfully working with children and families to prevent them from coming into contact with the child protection system.   

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These profiles highlight how our people are providing culturally safe and supportive environments. They are connecting children and families to culture and Country, and breaking down the barriers that prevent access to the supports and services that families need,” SNAICC CEO Catherine Liddle said. 

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“The programs build on the existing strengths of our families and cultures to provide nurturing care for children. They help to ensure children receive education, develop a strong sense of identity, and enjoy healthy living that is so crucial in a child’s early years.”  

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The 11 profiles tell stories of how the lived experiences, cultural knowledge and relationships of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and staff create safe spaces for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families. 

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From our communities, we hear the overwhelming call for more community-owned programs that take an empowering and holistic approach to support wellbeing and address family needs,” said Liddle. 

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“This project is a positive step towards building an evidence base of what is working for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families. We would like to see more investment in our own research to show the impact of our community-controlled success stories.” 

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“These incredible programs demonstrate that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled organisations are best placed to work with families experiencing adversities and help set children up for success in their early years. All governments must implement Priority Reform 2 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap by investing in our successful community-controlled approaches.” 

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Each Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisation has developed their own unique approach to working with children and families that is built on cultural safety and connection to community. This is ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families get the support they need to learn, grow, succeed, and avoid coming into contact with child protection services.  

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Opportunities to create new knowledge and new ways of working are not only benefiting and empowering the families and staff, but also improving the cultural competency and respect of clinicians, social workers and child protection officers.   

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To view the profiles, please click the link below.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led early intervention programs – SNAICC