ACCS child wellbeing language update aims to reduce stigma and support better family conversations

The Australian Government has updated the language used to describe children who may be eligible for Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) child wellbeing, with the changes taking effect from 1 July 2026.

While the eligibility criteria remain unchanged, the updated terminology is designed to reduce stigma, improve clarity and support early childhood education and care (ECEC) providers to have more sensitive and supportive conversations with families.

Providers will begin seeing the term ‘a child in need of wellbeing support’ used in some places instead of previous terminology.

The Department of Education said feedback indicated that terms such as ‘risk of serious abuse or neglect’ could be stigmatising and may discourage families from accessing support.

The updated language aims to focus more clearly on children’s wellbeing needs, rather than labels or risk-based descriptions.

It is also intended to support more respectful and strengths-based conversations between providers and families, particularly in complex or sensitive circumstances.

Although the language is changing, the criteria for accessing ACCS child wellbeing have not changed.

Providers must still provide evidence that clearly demonstrates a child needs additional wellbeing support because they are facing harm from serious abuse or neglect.

Evidence may include documented observations, information from allied professionals, reports from child protection or family support services, and clear links between the child’s circumstances and the need for additional support.

Approved providers and service leaders play a central role in identifying children who may need additional wellbeing support and applying for ACCS child wellbeing on behalf of families.

The updated language is intended to make these conversations less confronting, support earlier identification of children who may need help, reduce barriers to accessing support and strengthen trust between families and services.

Providers may see the new terminology reflected in ACCS guidance materials, application processes, departmental communications and training resources.

The Department of Education has published guidance to help providers understand ACCS child wellbeing and their role in identifying children who may require additional support.

Read more about identifying a child in need of wellbeing support.

Further information is also available on the Department’s ACCS child wellbeing overview.