UPDATE: The New South Wales (NSW) Government has just announced a transformative initiative to establish three new Aboriginal Child and Family Centres (ACFC) in the region, with a staggering investment of $100 million. This urgent development aims to enhance access to early learning and health services, providing culturally appropriate supports for Aboriginal families and children.
The new centres will be located in Broken Hill and Bourke, serving as vital community hubs that offer universal early childhood education alongside tailored services for Aboriginal families. These include essential programs such as counselling, playgroups, and mothers’ programs, addressing the urgent need for culturally sensitive support in local communities.
Belinda Field, CEO of Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services, emphasized the significance of these centres, stating, “It’s a place where our children are surrounded by language, identity, and the loving guidance of Aboriginal educators, Elders, and community from the very beginning of their journey.” Field stressed that the ACFC is not merely a building but a vibrant space dedicated to cultural learning and care.
David Harris, the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, highlighted the centres’ role in closing the gap for Aboriginal families. “ACFCs are trusted organisations within Aboriginal communities and are recognised as safe spaces,” he stated. This initiative directly addresses the alarming statistic that nearly 45% of all children in out-of-home care in NSW are Aboriginal, despite representing only 3.4% of the state’s population.
The NSW Government’s ambitious ACFC Expansion and Enhancement Program aims to provide early support to children and families, striving to make crisis interventions rare and brief. Over the coming years, a total of six new ACFCs will be rolled out across the state, with additional locations to be announced soon. Existing centres will also receive enhanced funding to broaden their service reach, ensuring that more families benefit from these crucial resources.
This initiative is not just about infrastructure; it’s about fostering a supportive environment for future generations. As Field expressed, “This is how we create strong foundations for strong futures our way.” The ACFCs will ultimately nurture a legacy of cultural identity and community support, empowering Aboriginal families to thrive.
With the launch of these centres, NSW is taking a significant step towards addressing the needs of Aboriginal children and families. As developments unfold, communities are encouraged to stay informed and engaged with this vital initiative that promises to transform lives.
This announcement is a call to action for all stakeholders involved, reinforcing the commitment to improving the wellbeing of Aboriginal children and ensuring their voices and cultures are honored and celebrated.
For ongoing updates on the progress of the ACFCs, stay tuned as further details emerge.
