How Aboriginal-led partnerships are shaping early childhood outcomes in WA

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices were central to the ninth meeting of the Early Childhood Care and Development Policy Partnership (ECCDPP), held on Whadjuk Noongar Boodja (Country) in Boorloo/Perth on 19 and 20 March 2025.

Co-chaired by SNAICC CEO Catherine Liddle and the Department of Education’s Kylie Crane, the meeting brought together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peak bodies, independent representatives and all levels of Australian government to progress community-led approaches to early childhood care and development.

The meeting focused on progressing key priorities under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, with particular emphasis on improving access to early learning and family services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

Progress on early years access and funding for ACCOs

Workshops at the meeting explored access to early childhood education and care (ECEC) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and funding models for Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) delivering integrated early years services.

The discussions drew on two recent research reports: a systematic evidence review on optimal hours of ECEC and a report on funding model options for ACCOs. The Partnership emphasised that children thrive in culturally safe learning environments and that investment in ACCO services is essential for equitable outcomes.

The Partnership also discussed the Australian Government’s upcoming reform to the Child Care Subsidy, which from January 2026 will guarantee all children access to at least three days of subsidised care per week. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children will be eligible for 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight.

Supporting ACCO-led service delivery

The ECCDPP continued its work on transitioning funding for child and family services to ACCOs, in line with Closing the Gap Priority Reform One. Members identified high-impact actions to redirect funding proportionate to community need, reinforcing that this shift supports self-determination and improved outcomes.

A research project was also agreed to improve funding models for ACCOs delivering child and family services, building on current work but focusing specifically on the family services sector.

Evidence and data to guide change

The development of an Evidence Guidance Framework is underway, which aims to support a shared understanding of how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities define and use evidence in child and family services.

In addition, members agreed to progress research that will improve the availability and accuracy of data on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families with disability who come into contact with child protection systems.

Spotlight on Western Australia and East Kimberley initiatives

Local representatives provided updates on early childhood policy in Western Australia, including initiatives to reduce the over-representation of Aboriginal children in out-of-home care and efforts to strengthen the ACCO sector.

The East Kimberley Place-Based Partnership (EK PBP) presented on its community-led approach to early childhood, prioritising local voice in funding and service design. The Partnership aims to create coordinated, culturally responsive services tailored to community needs.

The ECCDPP will meet again in July 2025 to continue its work progressing these priorities in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Learn more via the ECCDPP meeting 9 outcomes summary or visit the ECCDPP homepage.