National Coalition on Child Safety and Wellbeing | April 2024

Dear Colleagues,

Changing the Balance: A research project exploring transition impacts on non-indigenous non-government organisations (NGOs).

As discussed in recent National Coalition e-Bulletins, on behalf of the National Coalition, Families Australia have been engaged by the Department of Social Services (DSS) to undertake a complementary research project, which we have titled ‘Changing the Balance.’

Upcoming ‘Changing the Balance sector consultations

Perth, Geraldton and WA
Sydney, NSW, ACT & Tasmania

Who should attend?

While all are welcome, these sector consultations are primarily for non-Indigenous NGOs receiving Commonwealth Department of Social Services (DSS) funding for child and family services.

The Changing the Balance research project seeks to better understand the opportunities, potential changes and impacts on non-Indigenous NGO as sector funding profiles change to accommodate a shift in proportionate investment for child and family support services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs). Click here to read more about this project.

The development of the National Child and Family Investment Strategy includes general, and First Nations specific consultation mechanisms led by SNAICC. State and Territory governments are also developing engagement strategies related to this matter for their respective sectors.

Changing the Balance survey

Supplementing sector consultations being undertaken around the country, The Changing the Balance survey is now live!

If your organisation receives Commonwealth Department of Social Services (DSS) funding for child and family services, we want to hear from you about supporting a smooth transition across the sector, including:

  • The primary organisational and operational challenges faced by non-Indigenous NGOs from the transfer of funding allocations to ACCOs
  • Potential issues concerning future funding sustainability for mainstream NGOs in the child and family services sector
  • Suggestions and recommendations to address the potential risks to be faced by the sector, such as potential changes/disruptions to workforce, service delivery and/or organisational financial viability
  • Ensuring service continuity to families, children and young people during periods of transition and change.

Find out more and TAKE THE survey here. The survey runs until Friday 3 May.

Not yet a National Coalition member?

Membership of the National Coalition on Child Safety and Wellbeing is free. You can become a member by emailing admin@familiesaustralia.org.au or visiting the National Coalition webpage at https://familiesaustralia.org.au/national-coalition/

Hoping to see you – or your colleagues – at one of our upcoming ‘Changing the Balance’ consultations. Thank you for your support and ongoing commitment to the safety and wellbeing of children and families.

Regards,
Jamie Crosby

Convenor, National Coalition on Child Safety and Wellbeing
CEO Families Australia   P: 02 6273 4885   |   E: admin@familiesaustralia.org.au

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and future.

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