National Coalition e-bulletin | March 2024

Dear Colleagues

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

As discussed in the last National Coalition e-Bulletin, SNAICC – National Voice for our Children, the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Protection Peak (QATSICPP) and Social Ventures Australia (SVA) have partnered to deliver National Child and Family Investment Strategy (the Strategy) by June 2024.

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.’ Click here to read more about this project.

Upcoming ‘Changing the Balance sector consultations

Families Australia are hosting a series of ‘Changing the Balance’ sector consultations to explore how non-Indigenous NGOs can best work collaboratively with First Nations organisations in supporting the growth and capacity of the ACCO sector. This includes a better understanding of the potential changes and impacts on the non-Indigenous NGOs as sector funding as 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).

Who should attend?

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

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.

Upcoming Changing the Balance consultations are as follows:

Victoria
South Australia
Queensland

Consultations in the NT, WA and NSW will occur in April, dates are currently being finalised. There will also be other opportunities to engage with the ‘Changing the Balance’ project, including a national survey to be released in late March. Please regularly check this webpage for more info or email policy@familiesaustralia.org.au

Copies of Safe and Supported Action Plans

Families Australia have a small supply of hard copies of the Safe and Supported Action Plans. If you would like to request up to 2 hard copies for your organisation, please email your request through to policy@familiesaustralia.org.au and provide your postal address.

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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