SNAICC Sector Transformation Principles Framework

SNAICC Transformation: A Vision for Self-Determined, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-Led Child and Family Services

Safe and Supported: The National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children 2021-2031, its associated First Action Plan 2023-2026, together with the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, establish a clear and shared commitment to achieving parity in wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families.

These frameworks provide the right foundation and intent. However, the current trajectory of implementation is not yet delivering the outcomes required. This is not a reflection of flawed policy direction, but rather of inconsistent implementation of what governments have already agreed to under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

Achieving meaningful and sustained change requires full realisation of these commitments, particularly those relating to shared decision-making, strengthening the Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) sector and embedding culture within structural decision-making across government and the broader service system. When implemented as intended, these frameworks provide a pathway to transformational change grounded in self-determination and cultural authority.

SNAICC’s Transformation approach places Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-determination at the centre of policy and system design, decision-making, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and oversight by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The National Agreement on Closing the Gap, including the Priority Reforms, highlights the need to transform government institutions and strengthen the ACCO sector, with self-determination at the centre of this transformation. Consistent with this, SNAICC recognises self-determination as a key benchmark for how sector transformation is defined, measured and realised. This elevates the importance of organisations controlled by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples having a central role in improving and reimagining the quality of services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families.

SNAICC’s Transformation agenda is a bold, systemic shift toward Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) leading culture-centred child and family services. Rooted in self-determination, cultural responsivity and community empowerment, this transformation agenda seeks to dismantle the legacy of mainstream-dominated service delivery, recognising that for decades, culturally unsafe systems have contributed to harm experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families.

The aim is to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities design, govern and control the services that impact their children and families.