A new approach to programs for families and children: what the consultation report signals for the sector

The Australian Government’s consultation on A New Approach to Programs for Families and Children marks a significant shift in how support systems for children, families and communities may be designed and delivered. The recently released Consultation Report outlines what stakeholders across Australia shared during the November–December 2025 engagement period, highlighting both the complexity of family needs and a clear call for reform.

For the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector, the report signals a move towards more integrated, place-based and culturally responsive systems, with a stronger focus on outcomes for children and families. 

Australia’s current mix of programs for families and children has evolved over decades, shaped by changing policy priorities and funding approaches. While many programs deliver positive outcomes, the system is often experienced as fragmented and difficult to navigate.

The consultation sought to understand how well current programs meet the needs of families, where gaps and duplication exist, and how services can be better coordinated. It also explored how to strengthen cultural safety and improve access for families experiencing vulnerability.

The Consultation Report provides a national snapshot of these perspectives, offering insight into both system strengths and areas requiring reform. 

Key themes emerging from the consultation

A consistent message across stakeholders is that families face significant challenges navigating multiple services, eligibility requirements and referral pathways.

Fragmentation means families often repeat their stories, manage multiple appointments and coordinate support themselves – frequently while experiencing crisis.

There is strong support for streamlined access points, clearer referral pathways and integrated service models that reduce duplication while maintaining appropriate privacy protections.

The consultation reinforces the need to shift from reactive to preventative approaches. Many families access support only after challenges have escalated, due to barriers such as cost, stigma, limited service availability and long wait times.

Stakeholders emphasised the importance of earlier identification of risk, proactive outreach and flexible supports that respond before crisis point. Funding models that prioritise prevention are seen as critical to this shift.

The report highlights the importance of culturally safe, trauma-aware services, particularly for First Nations families who continue to experience systemic barriers.

Stakeholders called for stronger involvement of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations in program design and delivery, alongside recognition of cultural knowledge as expertise. Programs must reflect local context, language and identity to be effective.

Communities differ widely in demographics, service availability and local needs. The consultation points to growing support for place-based models that enable local decision-making and tailored responses.

This includes flexible funding, cross-sector collaboration and shared outcomes frameworks that allow services to adapt to their community context.

Workforce pressures remain a significant constraint across ECEC, family support and community services. High turnover, limited access to professional learning, burnout and challenges attracting educators to regional and remote areas are impacting service delivery.

The report signals that workforce sustainability must be considered a core design element in any future system reform.

ECEC services operate at the intersection of early learning, family support and community connection. The themes emerging from the consultation closely reflect the realities experienced across the sector.

Educators are often among the first to identify developmental concerns or signs of family stress. A more connected system would support clearer referral pathways, improved communication and shared approaches to supporting children’s wellbeing.

High-quality early learning environments provide stability, routine and trusted relationships, particularly for children experiencing vulnerability. The report reinforces the role of ECEC as a key platform for early intervention and prevention.

The emphasis on cultural safety highlights the need for ongoing professional learning, meaningful engagement with First Nations communities and the development of culturally responsive environments.

As community-based services, ECEC providers are well positioned to contribute to local planning and integrated service delivery. Place-based approaches may create new opportunities for collaboration across health, education and social services.

he Consultation Report represents an important step towards a redesigned national approach to supporting families and children. It will inform future decisions about program design, funding structures and outcomes measurement, with further engagement expected as the work progresses.

For the ECEC sector, this is a critical moment to remain engaged. Insights from educators and providers, particularly in relation to early identification, family engagement, cultural safety and workforce sustainability, will play an important role in shaping a system that delivers meaningful and lasting impact.

Read the full Consultation Report here.