SSI welcomes Thriving Kids response, calls to embed multicultural communities in delivery 

SSI General Manager of Children, Families and Disability Support Ben Fioramonte said the focus must now turn to implementation, particularly for children from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities who are around half as likely to access early intervention services as other children, despite often facing similar levels of need.

“The government has taken an important step forward in recognising that the success of Thriving Kids will depend on whether it reaches the children and families who are currently missing out,” Mr Fioramonte said.

“We encourage governments to ensure multicultural organisations are part of the delivery model, that CALD voices are included in decision-making, and that community feedback helps shape the ongoing evaluation of the initiative.”

SSI welcomed the government’s support for a commissioned service model to help ensure quality services are available across all Thriving Kids jurisdictions.

“Trusted multicultural, settlement and place-based organisations must be recognised as essential partners in delivering Thriving Kids, particularly in communities where children are least likely to access support,” Mr Fioramonte said.

“For many migrant and refugee families, these organisations are already the first place they turn to for advice and support. They help families navigate complex systems, build confidence and connect with the right services early.”

SSI also welcomed the government’s in principle support for inclusive co-design through the Thriving Kids Advisory Group and called for strong multicultural representation across governance and implementation arrangements.

Mr Fioramonte, who also chairs the National CALD Disability Reform Committee, said the committee could provide governments with valuable insights into service gaps, community awareness and emerging needs across the country.

“The Committee brings together services, peak bodies and community organisations working directly with culturally diverse communities across Australia,” he said.

“It is well placed to provide governments with practical feedback about where services are working, where gaps remain and what more is needed to ensure families can access support.”

SSI said community-led feedback should form part of the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of Thriving Kids.

“If Thriving Kids is going to succeed, governments need to understand not only where services are being delivered, but which communities are still missing out,” Mr Fioramonte said.

“Listening to the experiences of families and community organisations will be critical to ensuring the program delivers on its promise for every child.”