A landmark collaboration between government, philanthropic organisations, and community leaders has committed to a major overhaul of Australia’s child and youth support systems, backed by more than $47 million in initial funding.

The Investment Dialogue for Australia’s Children has unveiled plans to partner with 50 communities by 2030, prioritising community-led approaches to improve outcomes for children, young people and their families.

Catherine Liddle, Chair of the Investment Dialogue Community Leadership Council, emphasised the importance of Indigenous involvement: “Reforms must be community-led and decisions made in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, as they know their communities best and they know best what works.”

The initiative includes the establishment of three innovation zones to tackle systemic barriers to intergenerational change. Bryan Foundation Executive Director Matthew Cox highlighted the practical implications: “We’re focussing on joining-up investment and working carefully with local community members so we get it right on the ground.”

Twenty-four philanthropic organisations have joined the Dialogue, which will also collaborate with the Government’s $100 million Outcomes Fund through a newly established Social Impact Investment and Advisory Working Group.

“Breaking cycles of adversity means tackling issues at their root causes,” said Minderoo Foundation Executive Director Communities Penny Dakin. “The most effective way to do this is by communities leading the way with the resources and capability they need to create long-lasting change.”

The initiative will focus on integrated early childhood development, with particular emphasis on First Nations-led approaches and full-service school models. Simon Factor, Investment Dialogue Executive Convenor, noted: “We have the opportunity to amplify each other’s strengths, partner on innovation and better coordinate investments.”

The program will expand in 2025, with plans to include State and Territory Governments and additional philanthropic partners in the collaboration.

Related: Collaborative efforts to empower vulnerable communities and children