Thriving Kids report welcome progress for CALD children and families

The report answers questions about the impacts on children from marginalised groups such as the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) and First Nations, under the federal government program announced in August last year.

In particular, SSI welcomes the recognition that government must coordinate with sector organisations, and children and families with lived experience to ensure that these proposals are implemented in person-centred, culturally safe ways.

SSI General Manager, Children, Families and Disability Support Ben Fioramonte said the report contained a strong emphasis on equality and inclusion, which are at the heart of SSI’s work.

“We welcome the recommendation to consider the eligibility of children and families who live in Australia regardless of visa or citizenship status. Our social supports should be based on need, not the number on your visa, and these groups are particularly vulnerable to exclusion from crucial systems that facilitate health and wellbeing outcomes,” he said.

Mr Fioramonte said SSI’s own research shows children from migrant and refugee backgrounds are already accessing early childhood education at lower rates than other children, while those with developmental concerns are also more likely to miss out on critical early intervention.

“Providers with a strong understanding of cultural norms and parenting practices are better equipped to create culturally safe environments. It is critical that we adopt the report’s proposal to co-design programs with community leaders and parents to build this trust and security,” he said.

Mr Fioramonte said we welcome the report’s recommendation to develop Universal Parenting Supports that reflect a wide range of cultural perspectives and lived experiences.

“We work with thousands of CALD families every year and understand how critical language accessibility is to these communities. Translations by qualified interpreters and the use of plain language resources can address gaps in English proficiency and understandings around disability, enabling confident service navigation,” he said.

Mr Fioramonte urged the government to engage early and often with families and health professionals to ensure a child-centred approach to its proposed measurement process for diagnosing children between mild/moderate Autism versus significant and permanent disability.

“Clear pathways should also be created so that children with significant and permanent disabilities are directed to the NDIS and feel supported in gaining access to the scheme,” he said.

SSI is proud to lead a CALD Advisory Committee that has provided input to the Advisory Group, alongside peak bodies, advisory groups and disability organisations, elevating the voices of people with lived experience and advocating for inclusive disability reform.

“As a Committee, we are ready to work in partnership with government to support the delivery of a nationally consistent Thriving Kids program, and to ensure future evaluations prioritise culturally responsive feedback, accessibility, sustainability, and the building of trust with CALD children and their families.”