The federal government is backing a trial project aimed at preventing First Nations children from entering the child protection system and supporting the reunification of families in inner Sydney.
With $1.39 million in funding, the initiative aims to assist Aboriginal families with children at risk of serious harm or already in out-of-home care. The project emphasises maintaining connections between children, their families, communities, and cultural heritage.
Funded through the Closing the Gap Outcomes and Evidence Fund, the trial aligns with Target 12 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, which seeks to reduce the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care by 45 per cent by 2031.
The project will be delivered by the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council under their Stronger Families Service Model. This approach integrates case management and social and emotional well-being programs tailored to the needs of vulnerable families.
The trial was selected following a proposal assessment process facilitated by Inner Sydney Empowered Communities (ISEC), an alliance of Aboriginal service organisations operating in the Redfern and La Perouse regions.
In addition to addressing immediate concerns around family safety and child welfare, the project aligns with the Safe and Supported Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander First Action Plan 2023-26, which serves as the Government's primary strategy for meeting Target 12.
Federal Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth highlighted that the trial project aims to reduce the over-representation of First Nations children in out-of-home care by supporting at-risk families and promoting family reunification.
Delivered by the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council, the initiative focuses on creating safe, connected environments for children while building on the community's strong cultural foundations.
The initiative seeks to build on the strength and resilience of the local La Perouse community, reinforcing cultural connections while offering practical, targeted support to families in need.
By investing in preventative measures and community-led solutions, the government aims to create "safer, more supportive environments" in which First Nations children can grow and thrive.
