Construction begins on new Aboriginal child and family centre

The NSW Government is to increase access to early learning and health screening for Aboriginal families in Western NSW, with construction beginning on Broken Hill’s new Aboriginal Child and Family Centre.

The centre will be delivered in partnership with Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation, which was awarded the contract following a competitive open tender process.

Broken Hill is a beneficiary of the NSW Government’s $100 million centre Expansion and Enhancement Program, which is boosting early childhood education, family supports and care services across the State.

Commitment

While designed to provide integrated, culturally appropriate and needs-based services for Aboriginal families and children, ACFCs also operate as community hubs, providing universal early learning services for all families, alongside dedicated health and community spaces.

Acting Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty Jodie Harrison said the government was committed to closing the gap for Aboriginal families and children by assuring they receive the essential early education and health services needed in rural communities.

“We know the best way to close the gap is by Aboriginal people shaping and driving outcomes for Aboriginal people,” Ms Harrison said.

“Having an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation like Maari Ma run the centre will ensure it can provide culturally appropriate services for Aboriginal families.”

The Government has embarked on reform of the child protection and out-of-home care (OOHC) system, with a goal to address the overrepresentation of Aboriginal children in OOHC. Currently, nearly 45 per cent of all children in care are Aboriginal, despite being only 3.4% of the state’s population. This investment in Broken Hill will empower local Aboriginal communities to keep families strong and children safe, thriving and connected.

Partnership

“Aboriginal Child and Family Centres are absolute game changers, offering everything young families and children need to thrive, from early education to health and community services,” Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington said.

“It’s great to be in Broken Hill with Maari Ma to kick off this exciting project – working together we’re build a centre which will change lives, for generations to come.

“By partnering with Maari Ma, a trusted local Aboriginal organisation, we are investing in an Aboriginal-led service to improve outcomes for kids and families in Broken Hill.”

The new centre in Broken Hill is expected to be operational in early 2027.

For more information on ACFCs, visit the NSW Department of Communities and Justice website.