With Indigenous children almost 12 times more likely to be placed in out-of-home care, the Australian federal government will spend $44 million (US$28.6 million) over four years to help their families navigate the child protection system.
The money is being committed to ensure a Closing the Gap target is achieved to reduce by 2031 the number of Indigenous children in out-of-home care by 45 percent.
“The role of government is to listen to communities who best understand their local context, aspirations and what will help families navigate early support services and the child protection system,” Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said in a statement on Aug. 12.
Targeted investment through the Improving Multidisciplinary Responses (IMR) program will aim to enhance existing services in providing specialised care to families and to “walk alongside them to ensure no one falls through the gaps.”
Rishworth said IMR takes a holistic approach to the issue and recognises the importance of place-based, community-designed support for Indigenous families and children.
Fifteen organisations have been chosen receive funds, with input from independent First Nations representatives, along with Commonwealth, state and territory government officials.
“These organisations and the services they provide will bring us closer to achieving Target 12 of Closing the Gap to reduce the rate of over-representation of First Nations children in out-of-home care,” Rishworth said.
“The funding will go straight to communities and families, so they can ensure better futures for their children.”
