This article outlines some of the key problems with the current approach to data use and describes how Restacking the Odds (RSTO) in partnership with communities and service providers around Australia has been addressing these problems.

To tackle entrenched disadvantage in Australia, we need to have consistent and timely information to know what is happening and where, but we don’t. To create a fairer Australia, children and families facing disadvantage require high-quality services during the early years. Unfortunately, those working to improve early childhood services, particularly the frontline workers, often lack the timely data, resources and support needed to focus their efforts effectively.

RSTO provides a framework of evidence-based lead indicators, resources and tools to support service providers (including frontline practitioners), and policymakers to improve service quality, quantity and participation across core early years services.

RSTO focuses on five fundamental early years services: antenatal care, sustained nurse home visiting, early childhood education and care, parenting programs and the early years of school. 

These five services each have a sound evidence base that shows they are beneficial. RSTO’s insights have relevance for other social sectors that are working to address inequities. The article also outlines the key role governments and philanthropists can play to support service providers and communities to be better equipped to collect and use data to support systems changes.