One of the largest surveys ever undertaken of Aboriginal children and families throws new light on why most existing intervention programs are failing to produce results needed for overcoming the present levels of Indigenous disadvantage. Volume Four of the Western Australian Aboriginal child health survey concentrates on family and community factors that influence outcomes for Aboriginal children aged 0 to 17 years using data from carers, young people aged 12 to 17 years and administrative data sources. The survey shows that 60% of Aboriginal children were already significantly behind non-Aboriginal children by the time they started Year one. The report makes 23 recommendations to address a broad range of issues including housing, financial strain, stress and how to boost capability within the Aboriginal community.

Other WAACHS publications, including Volume One – 'The Health of Aboriginal Children and Young People', Volume Two – 'The Social and Emotional Wellbeing of Aboriginal Children and Young People', and Volume Three – 'Improving the Educational Experiences of Aboriginal Children and Young People' can be obtained from the web site link below.