Experts pool resources for early childhood

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Larry Anthony, today welcomed the first in a series of workshops supported by the Coalition Government to better target investment in Australia’s children.

“The Academy of the Social Sciences In Australia (ASSA) is holding a workshop in Melbourne today as a first step in developing nationally agreed research priorities in early childhood,” Mr Anthony said.

“The workshop is one of the first that will bring together experts in the field of research in young children from across Australia including, health, sociology, economics, education, psychology, philosophy and law.”

Debate will focus on areas including rural and remote families, mental health issues, disadvantage crossing generations, indigenous issues, the economics of family life and child development and policy translation of research data.

“Experts will share their knowledge and skills to develop a research “blueprint” that will help researchers to better understand the problems surrounding child and family development and well being.

“The workshop recognises that issues surrounding children’s early development cut across many areas of expertise – we can’t just stay within our own narrow areas of interest.

“The Coalition Government will also fund a workshop to be held by the Centre for Community Child Health in September 2002, where professional leaders in the field of developing solutions to early child health and development problems will be involved.

“We need to know more about reducing the chances of children ending up unemployed, in trouble with the law, or with mental health problems as adults.

“I’m committed to finding ways to give all Australian children the opportunity to reach their full potential,” Mr Anthony said.

For information about the workshop call Margot Prior from ASSA on ph 0438 849 205