In Australia, several policies and frameworks have been prepared in support of health and wellbeing in the arena of early childhood—itself evidence of the commitment to child protection, mental health promotion, and family support. The National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children 2021-2031 follows a whole-of-government approach to the prevention and response mechanism for child abuse and neglect with an emphasis on early intervention and community involvement (Department of Social Services, 2021). On the other hand, actions under the National Mental Health Strategy raise awareness around prevention and offer early support to families experiencing mental health issues (Australian Government Department of Health, 2022).
Reporting suspected abuse or neglect and accompanying multi-agency responses constitute statutory requirements under the state-based child protection legislation for early childhood services (NSW Ombudsman, 2023). After raising Children Network provides evidence-based information to support families going through mental health and wellbeing challenges (Raising Children Network, 2024). Finally, children with developmental delays or disabilities associated with health conditions-including those caused by trauma or neglect-receive support through the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) pathway under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS; NDIS, 2023).
Despite the several policy frameworks, stigma, less services being available for rural areas, and improper coordination in support continue to pose challenges for families (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2023).