The Australian government is developing an Early Years Strategy to shape its vision for the future of Australia’s children and their families.

Recognising how critical the early years are for children’s development and continued success over their lifetime, the strategy will aim to deliver the best possible outcomes for Australian children.

The strategy will help the Commonwealth create a more integrated, holistic approach to the early years and better support the education, wellbeing and development of Australia’s children. It will seek to support improving coordination between Commonwealth programs, funding and frameworks impacting early childhood development.

This discussion paper:

• outlines the purpose, scope and key considerations for the strategy
• gives a snapshot of how children are faring across Australia
• describes the consultation approach
• provides question prompts for those wanting to make submissions
• explains how to make a submission.

Submissions close 30 April 2023.