References and Resources
Victorian Government Policy
Children First policy - Victorian State Government 2002 (PDF - 235Kb) highlights the need to link universal and secondary early childhood services to improve the early identification of children at risk and to improve outcomes for children and their families. This policy includes new ways to build, strengthen and connect services, including maternal and child health, maternity, early intervention, kindergarten, child care and family support services.
Premier's Children's Advisory Committee (PCAC) Report - Joining the Dots (http://www.office-for-children.vic.gov.au/statewide-outcomes/library/publications/) - acknowledges and supports many of the current initiatives being undertaken within the early years area, including Municipal Early Years Plans, the Future directions of the Victorian Maternal and Child Health Service, children's centers and reform in the family services and child protection sectors.
Putting children first…the next steps (http://www.office-for-children.vic.gov.au/policy-planning-funding/library/publications/) - the Victorian State Government's response to the PCAC report, endorsed the broad directions contained in Joining the dots and outlined in more detail it's commitment to addressing the needs of children.
A Fairer Victoria (http://www.dvc.vic.gov.au/web14/dvc/dvcmain.nsf) - outlines the State Government's social policy action plan to address disadvantage and promote inclusion and participation. A Fairer Victoria targets four priority areas, meaning a more concentrated effort in the key areas that will continue to make a difference to disadvantaged and vulnerable Victorians.
Giving children the best start in life is a key government strategy within A Fairer Victoria. The Victorian State Government acknowledges that the first four years are critical to the long-term health and development of children and their future chances. Seven key actions to give children the best start in life are identified in this policy.
More information
Future Directions for the Maternal and Child Health Service (http://www.office-for-children.vic.gov.au/earlychildhood/library/publications/) - an overview of changes
Education Support Promotional Materials
Poster Kits are now on loan through Best Start to assist providers and other professionals in their local promotional activites. For more information about hiring the Poster Kit contact beststart@dhs.vic.gov.au or download the PDFs and print them for yourself:
- Poster 1. Did you know? (PDF - 122Kb) (6 X A4 sheets) - "There are 60,000 babies born in Victoria each year whose families are supported by early childhood services."
- Poster 2. Did you know? (PDF - 111Kb) (3 x A3 sheets) - "Health Promotion strategies in the early years improve child development."
- Poster 3. Did you know? (PDF - 116Kb) (2 x A3 sheets)
- Best Start Banner (PDF - 29Kb) (900 X 300cm)