Boori Milumba helps First Nations children be set up for success

First Nations children at Boori Milumba, located in Nowra, on the South Coast of New South Wales, are being given targeted wrap-around support to help bridge the gap to school readiness.

Boori Milumba has been co-developed in partnership with SNAICC, with a focus on a First Nations service-led design process that is culturally grounded, holistic, and responsive to the needs and aspirations of local First Nations children and families.

Co-located at the Cullunghutti Aboriginal Child and Family Centre, Boori Milumba is currently the only First Nations-led site participating in the intensive early childhood education and care (ECEC) trial.

The multi-disciplinary trial offers intensive ECEC, infant mental health and family support, access to services to redress harm and overcome trauma, and support for children’s learning and development.

The model is designed to lift school readiness and broader education and health outcomes for participants while helping to further build the evidence base for best practice early learning programs in Australia.

“This trial is an important part of how the Albanese Government is working in partnership with First Nations people to Close the Gap,” Minister for Early Childhood Education Dr Anne Aly said.

SNAICC – National Voice for our Children CEO Catherine Liddle said SNAICC is “very excited” to be involved in the initiative.

“Boori Milumba draws on First Nations knowledge and wisdom to create a nurturing environment for our children that celebrates their cultural identity,” she said.

“We know through evidence and experience that this Aboriginal-led approach, together with the intensive support on offer, will make a huge difference to the outcomes for children and families.”

For more information about Closing the Gap initiatives for early childhood please see here.