Thursday, 5 May, 2017

The Andrews Labor Government is exploring new ways to better support Gippsland parents during their child’s first 1000 days through local initiatives.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today opened the Inner Gippsland First 1000 Days Symposium in Moe, meeting community and business leaders to start consultation on a plan to improve outcomes for Gippsland children.

The first 1000 days of a child’s life – from birth to age two – are a critical point of their development, and a unique opportunity to shape a healthier and more prosperous future for them and their community.

The Inner Gippsland Children and Youth Area Partnership are leading the plan’s development and looking at fresh approaches to support parents create environments where their children can thrive.

It is one of eight Children and Youth Area Partnerships established by the Government to find new approaches to improving the lives of children, young people and their families.

These new partnerships bring together local, state and federal governments, Victoria Police, and the health, education and community sectors.

The Inner Gippsland Children and Youth Area Partnership work across the local government areas of Bass Coast, Baw Baw, Latrobe and South Gippsland.

The work of Children and Youth Area Partnerships contribute to the Government’s Roadmap for Reform and help build the Education State.

This builds on the $81.1m package announced as part of the Victorian Budget 2017/18 to provide extra support for new parents, including those with babies born prematurely, multiple births, or families facing particular disadvantage.

About 130 government, council, community and business leaders attended today’s symposium in Moe.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“We are exploring new ways to make sure that Gippsland families can access the local support they need to provide their children with a great start in life.”

“Communities, parents and carers all have a crucial role to play in the development and wellbeing of our children and young people – it is this shared responsibility that our new Children and Youth Area Partnerships recognise and build on.”