The Telethon Kids Institute, Minderoo Foundation and the State Government have today announced a $49.3 million investment into a long-term early childhood initiative.
The 10-year partnership will see community leaders, all levels of government, researchers, business and philanthropic organisations come together to look at ways to better design and deliver services for children aged 0-4 years.
Four communities across metropolitan, regional and remote Western Australia will be invited to take part in the initiative. These locations are yet to be confirmed.
Research shows that a healthy and positive start to life can strengthen a child and help them to reach their full potential.
Despite significant investment in the early years, the developmental gap between children living in high and low socioeconomic areas has widened since 2009.
The new initiative will see organisations involved in childhood development working closely together, sharing data and tailoring responses for different communities.
The initiative will ensure that children in participating communities are starting school on an even playing field with their peers across the State. It will do so by supporting communities to implement a range of evidence-based changes to make better use of existing services and supports for families with young children.
The costs and resources of the initiative will be shared between the State Government and partners Minderoo Foundation and Telethon Kids Institute, with the State Government investing $24.6 million over 10 years, using existing funding.