An Australian first pilot program to help vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children remain connected with their community and country has been announced by the Minister for Child Protection, Luke Donnellan.
Mr Donnellan said the $11.6 million pilot program would see Aboriginal-led teams respond to child protection reports.
“Under the new program, Aboriginal-led teams will respond to child protection reports, in partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services, and help local families who may become involved in the child protection or care services system,” Mr Donnellan said.
“Connecting children and their families with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) early is vital in improving self-determination for Aboriginal communities,” he said.
“Through this Australian first pilot we’re taking action to reduce the over-representation of Aboriginal children in care.”
Mr Donnellan said the Victorian Budget 2020-2021 allocated $44.2 million to enable the Aboriginal Children in Aboriginal Care (ACAC) program, which saw designated ACCOs assume legal responsibility of Aboriginal children on protection orders.
The Minister said the allocation would allow ACAC to support a further 396 Aboriginal children to have their case planning and management undertaken by an Aboriginal organisation.
“Early results already showing Aboriginal children are reunified with their families faster under the landmark program,” he said.
“Victoria’s Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations do a fantastic job helping kids remain connected with their community and country, and supporting reunification with their families wherever possible,” Mr Donnellan said.
