$3 million boost for Indigenous children’s support on National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day
The Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC) will receive a $3 million Australian Government funding boost over the next three years.
Visiting Yappera Children’s Service to celebrate National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day, Indigenous Affairs Minister, Jenny Macklin, said the funding would be directed towards SNAICC Resource Service (SRS), which shares information on early childhood development.
“SNAICC is an important initiative that provides the evidence-base for expanding Indigenous children’s life chances,” Ms Macklin said.
“Australian Government funding enables SNAICC to further strengthen support services for Indigenous children, families and communities and provide advice on services required to close the gap in Indigenous early childhood.”
The funding will also help SNAICC share information between the Government and the community on social issues, represent the rights and views of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and provide information about relevant government policies and programs.
The Rudd Government has set ambitious targets for closing the gap including giving all four year olds in remote Indigenous communities access to early childhood education within five years.
As the national peak body representing the interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, SNAICC provides a strong voice for Indigenous children and families.
Since 1988 SNAICC has been celebrating National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day on 4 August, and this year many activities across the country will mark this special day, ranging from library and family days to hand print displays.
SNAICC is a member of the Coalition of Organisations Committed to the Safety and Wellbeing of Australia’s Children, which is helping the Government to develop the National Child Protection Framework.
The Rudd Government is committed to an evidence-based approach to closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
Through its SNAICC website, SNAICC provides a national services directory, a resource service and a clearinghouse. It provides valuable materials, research and links to assist Indigenous service delivery for children.