Funding boost for Indigenous Child Care

Federal Minister for Community Services Larry Anthony today announced funding of $273,366 for three rural and remote indigenous child care services in Queensland.

Three multifunctional Aboriginal children’s services at Cherbourg, Woorabinda and Palm Island have been allocated the funding under the Federal Government’s special services program.

“Multifunctional services provide long day care for children and are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of families in rural and remote areas, and indigenous communities,” said Mr Anthony.

“These centres are located in areas that do not have access to services often taken for granted by people living in cities and larger country centres.

“The Federal Government has responded by providing ongoing funding to help he centres meet the needs of local families.

“This funding will ensure equal access to quality care for indigenous children in a safe and supervised environment.

“It also ensures that the services respond to the special cultural and development needs of indigenous children.

“These child care services are also used as a meeting place for community activities that may include visits by a nurse, nutritionist or other health professionals.”

Mr Anthony said the funding reflected the Government’s commitment to quality child care in isolated communities.

“These centres provide vital services to the community and support local families in many ways, which is why the Government continues to commit funds for child care services in the rural and remote areas of our country.”