The Department of Education has signed Formal Partnership Agreements with SNAICC – National Voice for our Children and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Corporation (NATSIEC).
Both organisations work in partnership with the Australian Government on strategies and actions to improve outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and students.
Each agreement recognises the strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and cultures and acknowledges the importance of working in partnership to achieve better outcomes.
The department is committed to working with SNAICC and NATSIEC to reform and enrich early childhood education and education systems, opportunities and outcomes. The agreements build on commitments to achieve socio-economic outcomes and embed all Priority Reforms under the National Agreement.
Catherine Liddle, CEO of SNAICC – National Voice for our Children said this agreement signals a new era of collaboration between the Department of Education and the Aboriginal Community Controlled Sector, ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children's needs and aspirations are better represented in educational reform.
"By sharing decision-making and acknowledging the strength of our cultures, we are paving the way for enriched educational outcomes and a brighter future for our children," Ms Liddle said.
"This agreement is a demonstration of the National Partnership Agreement on Closing the Gap in action.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander early years services have led the way in culturally strong early education and holistic supports for children and families for decades – this partnership provides an opportunity to grow and build on their incredible work.
Closing the Gap starts with our children, and that begins with quality education in the early years."
Sharon Davis, Chief Executive Officer at NATSIEC said:
"This partnership is a critical step in ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership and self-determination in education policy. NATSIEC is committed to working alongside the Department of Education to uphold the rights of First Nations learners, families, and communities in shaping the future of education and training in this country."
On National Close the Gap Day, the department recognises the importance of working in partnership on matters affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and their families throughout early childhood education and care, primary and secondary schooling, skills and training, and higher education.
Read the Formal Partnership Agreement with SNAICC and Partnership Agreement with NATSIEC.