Indigenous child index launched in Western Australia

The following information has been adapted from information provided by ABC news and the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research website.

The Indigenous Australian Early Development Index was launched in Perth on 20 January 2008 by Deputy Prime Minister, Julia Gillard. The index is an attempt to address inequalities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children when they begin formal schooling.

It involves a checklist questionnaire which contains over 100 questions measuring physical health and wellbeing, social competence, emotional maturity, language and cognitive skills, communication skills, and general knowledge.

The launch of the index follows successful trials with over 30,000 children in 414 communities. The project is expected to extend to other states next year.

The Australian Early Development Index: Building Better Communities for Children project is conducted by the Centre for Community Child Health at the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, in partnership with the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, Perth. The Federal Government will provide nearly $16 million to the project.

• For further information:
  • New health index to assess Indigenous children
    View media release: ABC
  • Indigenous child-health plan released
    View video: ABC News
  • Aboriginal child index launched in WA
    View media release: Sydney Morning Herald (20 January 2008)
  • Start early to boost Indigenous student services
    View media release: Telethon Institute for Child Health Research
  • View website: Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne (for general information on the index)
  • View website: Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, Perth