This review considers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Family-Led Decision Making (AFLDM) implementation and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people and families. It brings together a synthesis of recent literature, alongside insights from a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Governance Group of practice experts. 

AFLDM supports decisions about children’s safety that challenge colonial power imbalances within the statutory child protection system. AFLDM is a rights-based approach that works best when it is culturally grounded and led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. When done well, it strengthens participation, relationships and outcomes for children, families and kin. 

Across Australia, AFLDM is used in different ways. While the evidence base is still growing, available research points to strong benefits, particularly in strengthening family engagement and enabling culturally safe decision making. This review covers:

• what the evidence shows
• current evidence gaps
• what good practice looks like
• policy implications
• learning and evaluation priorities.