Jesuit Social Services welcomes the opportunity to provide feedback on the Department of Social Services’ proposed changes to programs supporting families and children.
Through our work with children and young people with complex needs, we have come to understand the impact of harm and trauma on their lives, as well as other factors that limit their ability to flourish. A key strategic priority for our organisation has been to find ways to intervene earlier, and we see clear gaps in comprehensive responses for at risk children, particularly those who have experienced harm or trauma and those facing complex and chronic disadvantage. Often responses come too late, or through punitive measures in the criminal justice system.
If developed through a genuine partnership with the community sector, these reforms offer a meaningful opportunity to reshape how government and community services work together to ensure children and young people are supported by strong families and communities who have the skills and confidence to nurture them.
