The Albanese Labor Government is hosting the first meeting of the new Parents and Carers Reference Group (PCRG), bringing together parents, carers and representatives of peak organisations representing the views of children, their families and communities.
This initiative is part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to embedding the voices of children and their families in the design, delivery and improvement of all Australian Government policies and programs.
Established under the Early Years Strategy 2024-2034, the PCRG will enable Government to hear directly from parents and caregivers on what matters to them. The Group will have 17 initial members, including 14 parents and three key stakeholder groups, and will provide advice on how to best support children aged 0-12.
“The Parents and Carers Reference Group is one of the ways we are ensuring the voices of children and families are at the heart of all the Government’s work to improve outcomes for our youngest Australians,” Minister Rishworth said.
“The members of this Group represent the great diversity of families with young children in Australia and bring a wealth of expertise, experience and insight to help us shape policy and services that will create real, positive change.”
“I look forward to the Parents and Carers Reference Group being an important forum to positively impact the lives of children and young people across Australia,” Minister Rishworth said.
The PCRG will meet three times a year through until 30 June 2029, with rotating membership to ensure the Government hears from a wide range of families.
More information on the PCRG is available on the Department of Social Services website.