Council launches development of Child, Youth & Family Strategy

Federation Council is taking decisive steps to develop a comprehensive Child, Youth and Family Strategy, aimed at addressing the pressing challenges faced by families in the region. To facilitate this process, the Council has engaged Ninety Mile Consulting (NMC), an organisation specialising in community engagement and strategic development.

Unique Challenges

Federation Council's position along the Murray River boundary presents complex cross-border dynamics in service delivery. Occupying an area of 5,685 square kilometres of land, low youth retention, low availability of skilled labour and an ageing population create inherent challenges for communities. Residents often face long travel distances to access essential services such as healthcare and education- particularly challenging for families, youth, and children.

Community Engagement Process

NMC has commenced an extensive community engagement process, including:

Consultations with Council staff, Youth Council members, local schools, childcare providers, and health and social services representatives Virtual stakeholder consultations, continuing until the end of September A community-wide survey, to be distributed shortly In-person engagement, scheduled for 16th – 19th of September featuring pop-up sessions, face-to-face consultations and site visits

Evidence-Based Approach

The strategy development integrates qualitative feedback with quantitative data to ensure effective, sustainable solutions. This approach will address the real needs of the community, particularly in managing the dispersed nature of services and population.

Call to Action

Federation Council urges all residents, especially families, youth and children to participate in the survey and engagement activities. Community input is crucial in shaping a strategy that reflects the needs and aspirations of the region.

Through this collaborative effort, Federation Council aims to develop a robust Child, Youth and Family Strategy that enhances the quality of life for all residents and effectively addresses the unique challenges of this border region.

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