The peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children is encouraging Australians to prioritise the rights and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander children this election – because they depend on it.
The peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children is encouraging Australians to prioritise the rights and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander children this election – because they depend on it.
Catherine Liddle CEO of SNAICC said closing the gap starts with our children and this election is a chance to remind Australians how important their vote is to their future.
“The 2025 election arrives at a crucial moment, as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children continue to be separated from their families, communities, and cultures and placed into child protection and juvenile justice systems at shockingly disproportionate rates, with minimal access to early intervention and diversion programs,” Ms Liddle said.
“In the lead-up to the election, we’re encouraging Australians to look for bold, transformative policies from our major parties — policies that can change the trajectory for our children.”.
“That means committing to a universal Early Childhood Education and Care system, investing in programs delivered by community-controlled services on the ground and investing in culturally safe family supports.
“If you care about children, invest in what keeps them safe and strong – connections to family, quality early education and care with services that help our children understand who they are.”
SNAICC – National Voice for Our Children’s election priorities focus on two key pillars: ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children thrive in their early years and delivering real action on Closing the Gap. This includes:
- a commitment to a universal Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) system that recognises the unique circumstances of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families
- implementing the findings of the Productivity Commission report
- a dedicated funding model for ACCO integrated early years services
- increasing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander early educator workforce
- expansion of the Connected Beginning program
- implementing Our Ways – Strong Ways – Our Voices: National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Plan to End Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence
- sustainable, ongoing funding for the Office of the National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Young People.
“Our priorities are based on what works, grounded in evidence, and shaped by the voices of our communities.”
“When children are strong, communities are strong, because every part of the system works together. This election is an opportunity to make our children, families, and communities stronger.”
**END**