The ‘achievement gap’ – a persistent difference in education outcomes by socioeconomic background – begins at two to three years and by the time children reach school has become entrenched. This report recommends a child-centred, needs-based approach to early years system design and funding. However, to date Australia has taken the opposite road when it...

Children with autism or ADHD have specific strengths but we live in a world designed for neurotypical brains. This can be a difficult and disabling experience for many children. This webinar explores how practitioners, educators and parents can use neurodivergent-affirming strategies to better support the mental health and wellbeing of autistic and ADHD children.

This policy brief argues for a stronger focus on responding to multicultural children with research, policy and practice not keeping pace with Australia’s increasing ethnic, linguistic and cultural diversity. Multicultural children are less likely to access early childhood education and this paper makes the case for a mix of targeted and place-based interventions. It provides...

Non-binding advice is provided prior to each Federal Budget on how the Government can increase economic inclusion and reduce disadvantage. The advice encompasses policy settings, systems and structures. This report provides 10 recommendations to enhance economic inclusion and to inform the Government’s decision making for the 2025-26 Federal Budget.

This report identifies 131 communities across Australia where significant socioeconomic disadvantage, high levels of early childhood developmental vulnerability and childcare deserts are leaving more than 25,000 children at risk of lifelong health, education, social and welfare issues. It provides a guide on how to turn things around, so children can enjoy long, happy, healthy lives well into adulthood...