28 July 2010

The Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector, Senator Ursula Stephens, today addressed the national conference of Homestart, a community organisation that provides support to parents with young children under the age of five.

Homestart coordinators from across New South Wales and Victoria gathered in Goulburn to update their skills and share their expertise.

Senator Stephens updated the conference on the work the Australian Government has been doing on early childhood development. This includes leading the development of a National Early Childhood Development Strategy and committing $4.4 billion over five years towards new initiatives to directly improve the life opportunities of children.

The Gillard Labor Government’s Paid Parental Leave scheme, which will come into operation next January, will improve outcomes for young children by supporting mothers to spend the first crucial months with their new born.

Senator Stephens praised the work of Homestart’s over 400 volunteers, who provide advice, practical assistance and moral support to parents with young children.

Homestart volunteers make home visits to reach out to parents who are struggling in their parenting role due to pressures such as multiple births, lack of social support, being new to an area or finding it hard to cope with a new baby.

Homestart complements the Gillard Labor Government’s commitment to early intervention and prevention strategies, including the family support program, children and parenting services, outreach services for parents and carers in rural and remote areas, and those caring for children with disability or in need of specialist support.

Senator Stephens also outlined the Government’s commitment to helping children with autism spectrum disorders and support services being provided to this special needs group of families.

Media Releases | July 28, 2010

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