$1.39M trial in Sydney aims to reduce Indigenous children in out-of-home care, supporting families at risk.

The Australian Government is funding a new trial project aimed at keeping Indigenous children in Sydney with their families and out of the child protection system. The $1.39 million initiative will support Aboriginal families at risk of having their children removed from their care, as well as those working towards family reunification.

Delivered by the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council, the project will focus on strengthening family connections and cultural ties. “First Nations children are significantly overrepresented in out-of-home care,” said Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth. “This trial is a crucial step towards addressing this critical issue and ensuring that all children have the opportunity to grow up in safe and loving environments.”

The project was selected following an assessment by Inner Sydney Empowered Communities (ISEC), an alliance of Aboriginal service organisations in the Redfern and La Perouse areas. “The La Perouse community has a rich history of strength and resilience, deeply rooted in its cultural heritage,” said Member for Kingsford-Smith, Matt Thistlethwaite. “This trial builds on that foundation by providing practical support to families at risk and helping maintain vital connections to culture and community.”

The initiative will be delivered through the Land Council’s Stronger Families Service Model, a case management program focusing on social and emotional well-being. “We are committed to working with families to address their needs and ensure the safety and well-being of their children,” said a spokesperson for the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council. “This project will provide much-needed support and resources to help families thrive.”

The new Sydney trial aims to contribute to Target 12 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, which aims to reduce the over-representation of Indigenous children in out-of-home care by 45 per cent by 2031. It also aligns with the Safe and Supported Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander First Action Plan 2023-26, the Government’s key strategy to address this critical issue.

This project represents a significant investment in the well-being of Indigenous children and families in Sydney. By providing targeted support and addressing the underlying social and emotional needs of families, the initiative aims to break the cycle of intergenerational trauma and ensure that all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Also read: Human rights ignored: First Nations children deserve better