The report maps the experiences of families accessing the network of health services and supports in Australia available from the very beginning of pregnancy, through birth, and across the first 2,000 days of a child’s life.

Research consistently shows that a child’s early years lay the groundwork for their entire life. This is a critical period that shapes lifelong outcomes across a wide range of areas, including educational achievement, career pathways, physical and mental health, and future interactions with social and justice systems.

The report identifies key system-wide barriers that prevent children and families from accessing high-quality, connected support. These barriers cut across pregnancy, birth, postnatal care and early childhood.

The report also finds that services are not consistently inclusive or culturally safe, and are not designed to respond effectively to families’ specific circumstances – such as housing stability, employment conditions, or mental health – meaning that many families do not receive the right support based on their unique needs.