AbSec welcomes landmark investment in Aboriginal Family Preservation
AbSec – NSW Child, Family and Community Peak Aboriginal Corporation has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement of a $180 million per annum investment in Family Preservation, including a dedicated Aboriginal Family Preservation (AFP) approach developed in partnership with Aboriginal communities.
The model includes five-year block funding contracts, equitable pricing, and a commitment to direct 40% of service delivery funding to Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations (ACCOs)—a significant shift that reflects a more inclusive, culturally grounded response to keeping children and young people safe and connected.
AbSec CEO John Leha said the new approach marks a long-overdue change in how Aboriginal families are supported.
“This is not just about funding—it’s about restoring the right for Aboriginal families to lead their own solutions,” said Mr Leha.
“For too long, systems that were never built for us have made decisions about our lives. This new model recognises that when communities lead, children thrive. It’s a powerful step towards healing, accountability and structural change.”
Mr Leha also acknowledged the co-design process led with ACCOs and Aboriginal communities to shape a model that is flexible, strengths-based, and rooted in cultural identity.
“This approach reflects our voices—it centres culture, family, and community, and supports ACCOs to deliver early, holistic care before a crisis,” he said.
“We’re proud to have worked with our partners in shaping this, and we’ll keep working to ensure it delivers real outcomes for our families.”
AbSec Chair Petrice Manton said the investment represents more than policy reform—it is a chance to reimagine the system through an Aboriginal lens.
“This commitment gives us the opportunity to build something better—something that recognises the strength of our people and the cultural foundations that have always kept our children safe,” Ms Manton said.
“For Aboriginal communities, Family Preservation is about more than just keeping families together—it’s about justice, dignity and the right to raise our children in culture.
“Long-term investment in ACCOs isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do. We know what works. What we need is the trust and resources to deliver it.”
AbSec will continue working closely with the ACCO sector, government, and communities to ensure the successful implementation of the Aboriginal Family Preservation model across New South Wales.
