The discussion will aim to capture insights and aspirations of how the early years should be best nurtured to help inform the development of the Federal Labor Government’s new Early Years Strategy.

The local feedback will help craft a submission to the Strategy’s development team, providing feedback and recommendations to the federal government on what is urgently needed in the Bendigo region.

Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth and Minister for Early Childhood Education and Youth Dr Anne Aly are jointly leading the development of the Strategy, in collaboration with other responsible Commonwealth Ministers.

Public submissions to the Early Years Strategy can be made here until March 30: https://engage.dss.gov.au/early-years-strategy/

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO MEMBER FOR BENDIGO, LISA CHESTERS

“We know the early years of a child’s life are the most critical period for brain development and a strong predictor of later life outcomes.

“The recent National Early Years Summit, hosted by the Labor Government in Parliament House in Canberra, was the conversation-starter Australia needed to establish our Early Years’ principles and guide the Australian Government’s policies, systems and services to deliver the best outcome for all young children in Australia – no matter where they are born or where they are raised.

“Getting it right in these early years of a child’s life helps to set the foundations for their success.

“We want all families to feel they can access the support and targeted services they need to birth and raise babies into safe, healthy and well-adjusted children.”

“Our community roundtable will ensure the Government hears what’s important for raising children in Bendigo and surrounds.”