Classifieds

Fewer Aboriginal children would end up in the child protection system if early childhood services were better funded and resourced, industry leaders suggest.
Victoria’s truth-telling inquiry is examining the child protection system, with early childhood leaders on Friday lamenting the fractured way centres are funded across the state.
Aboriginal-controlled childcare organisations that unite communities and instil a strong sense of identity in children receive the same Commonwealth funding as non-Aboriginal organisations, the Yoorrook Justice Commission was told.
When children in government care are enrolled in their services, centres don’t receive any extra funding for them.
Childcare centres also don’t have regular contact with child protection workers despite the children being there each day. They also don’t have a say when it comes to their care....