Advocacy
SNAICC launches 11 profiles showcasing First Nations community organisations
Freya Lucas
Mar 09, 2022
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SNAICC - National Voice for Our Children has this morning released 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.
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, and highlight how First Nations people are providing culturally safe and supportive environments, SNAICC CEO Catherine Liddle said.“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,” she added.
“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.”
First Nations communities across Australia are putting out “an overwhelming call,” Ms Liddle said, wanting more community-owned programs that take an empowering and holistic approach to supporting wellbeing and addressing family needs.
“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.”
Spanning a range of community sizes, types and circumstances, the 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,” she continued, calling for all governments to implement Priority Reform 2 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap by investing in community-controlled approaches.
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.
The 11 profiles are live on SNAICC’s website today. To view the profiles, please click here.
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