Key Elements
The Australian Government will provide $0.7 million for five playgroups to continue to service disadvantaged Indigenous families and children.The measure also provides additional services to Indigenous parents to assist them in their parenting role.
Background
This measure funds two Intensive Support Playgroups (ISPs) and three Locational Supported Playgroups (LSPs) in the Northern Territory. ISPs support disadvantaged families and children who are experiencing insecure or inadequate housing. ISPs deliver mobile playgroups across a number of sites with a family support worker.LSPs are a new model established in 2007-08 which are initiated and facilitated by paid coordinators. These playgroups operate within pre-existing facilities such as child care centres, pre-schools and community health centres to encourage integration with other community services.
The ISPs and LSPs delivered in the Northern Territory are a part of a wider national program to assist vulnerable parents in their parenting role.
Ongoing operational funding for the five playgroups means around 190 Indigenous children will be helped by the continued delivery of these services in the Northern Territory. This measure ensures an integrated approach with early childhood education and care and health services.