National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day

Tomorrow’s celebration of National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day (NAICD) is a timely reminder of the need to give all children the best possible start in life Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Larry Anthony, said today.

“I commend the contribution of the Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC) to the annual celebration of the National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day.

“Over the past 20 years, SNAICC has been an influential advocate, doing fantastic work to promote the needs of indigenous children with a National Day for the past 15 years.

“Aboriginal children’s services will be holding events around the country to celebrate the day and I encourage families and children to participate.

“The Coalition Government is strongly committed to developing a better future for indigenous people by nurturing and supporting the special relationships that exist between children, parents and elders.

“Our investment of more than $20 million each year to support culturally appropriate and flexible child care services is just one example of our efforts to meet the needs of indigenous families.

“Indigenous families and children also benefit from Federal funding for playgroups and enrichment programs which provide culturally appropriate activities and nutrition programs for school age children and teenagers.

“I am committed to providing high quality services that ensure that indigenous children are nurtured, supported and able to develop to their full potential,” Mr Anthony said.