Professor Frank Oberklaid recognised as Victoria’s Senior Australian of the Year 2023

Professor Frank Oberklaid – best known in early childhood education and care (ECEC) circles for his work on early childhood health and development, and as an advocate for the significant role that early childhood experiences play in life’s trajectory – has been named as Victoria’s Senior Australian of the Year 2023. 

 

Since founding and leading the Centre for Community Child Health Professor Oberklaid has dedicated his efforts to improving the lives of children demonstrating a commitment to research and evidence-informed policy and practice which has formed the basis of the Centre’s credibility and achievements. 

 

His conviction, drive, passion and tireless advocacy have led to incredible advances in children’s health and development, and in recent years children’s mental health and wellbeing.

 

For many years Professor Oberklaid has advocated to address challenges in children’s mental health terminology. Based on recommendations from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, Professor Oberklaid led a project to develop the Children’s Wellbeing Continuum – a tool to support conversations about children’s mental health. 

 

By enabling parents, teachers and children to more easily discuss and reflect on wellbeing, the Continuum can support health literacy and early identification and action when children are struggling.

 

The Sector would like to congratulate Professor Oberklaid on being awarded Victoria’s Senior Australian of the Year 2023 and for his nomination for Australian of the Year 2023.

 

Pictured: Professor Oberklaid in Kathmandu with UNICEF and Nepal Paediatric Society to take part in Nepal’s Early Childhood Development Week.