The historic $350m NSW Aboriginal family program aims to help at-risk children tell their own stories. Co-designed by First Nations families and Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), this initiative tackles the overrepresentation of Indigenous children in out-of-home care through a holistic, culturally safe approach.
The $350m Investment in Aboriginal Family Preservation
The NSW government allocated $350 million to 25 ACCOs as part of a broader $900 million investment in redesigned family preservation services. This funding also supports 30 non-government organisations to assist vulnerable families. The program emphasises trauma-informed care and community-led solutions.
Narrative Therapy and Healing at Abcare
At Coffs Harbour, Abcare’s healing centre Bimirr Darrundaygy provides children access to psychologists, registered nurses, and narrative therapists. Jack Archibald, a Kamilaroi and Wiradjuri narrative therapist, helped a nine-year-old boy with autism express his story through drawing. The child’s family had experienced domestic violence, but after narrative therapy, he began thriving.
Comparison: Traditional Child Protection vs. Aboriginal Family Preservation Program
| Aspect | Traditional Approach | Aboriginal Program |
|---|---|---|
| Funding model | Top-down government grants | Community-controlled distribution |
| Cultural safety | Often limited | Central to care |
| Outcomes | High out-of-home placements | Reduced removals, family reunification |
| Therapy methods | Standard clinical | Narrative, art, trauma-informed |
Key Takeaways
- $350m directed to Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations
- Program co-designed by First Nations families
- Focus on narrative therapy to help children re-author their stories
- Early success stories show reduced need for out-of-home care
- Supports holistic family preservation
FAQ
What is the NSW Aboriginal family preservation program?
It is a $350m initiative that funds Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations to deliver culturally safe, trauma-informed support to at-risk families, aiming to reduce Indigenous child removal.
Who benefits from this program?
First Nations children and families in New South Wales, particularly those at risk of entering out-of-home care, benefit from holistic, community-led support.
How does narrative therapy help children?
Narrative therapy allows children to express their experiences through drawing, storytelling, and other creative methods, helping them process trauma and build new, empowering narratives about their lives.
This groundbreaking program demonstrates that when communities lead, children and families can heal together. The NSW government’s historic investment paves the way for lasting change in Aboriginal child welfare.