Supporting Aboriginal children
The department works in partnership with key Aboriginal organisations to strengthen culturally responsive education and improve outcomes for Aboriginal children, students, families and communities.
The department has a formal Partnership Agreement, Working Together, Walking Together 2020 - 2030 with the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group Inc. (NSW AECG) to support staff and students to develop an understanding and appreciation of the richness and diversity of Aboriginal cultures and histories. This Partnership also recognises NSW AECG as the peak advisory body for all matters related to Aboriginal education in NSW.
The department has a Sector Strengthening Partnership contract with the Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC) to develop a range of resources and supports early childhood education and early learning services working with Aboriginal children. and families.
As Aboriginal people are the Traditional Custodians of NSW, we refer to Aboriginal people. The department’s Aboriginal programs and services are available, without question, to Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Overview
These resources review and consider the National Quality Framework (NQF) in a way that's more relevant to services which provide:
early childhood education and care (ECEC) to Aboriginal children
support to these children’s families and communities
give ongoing guidance and reference for services implementing the NQF into daily practice
are available to all service providers and ECEC staff.
Running a deadly service
Culture and the National Quality Framework
- Checklist of obligations under the National Quality Framework (PDF 457 KB)
- Getting to know the National Quality Framework (PDF 665 KB)
- A refresh on the National Quality Framework: tool for educators (PDF 658 KB)
- Embedding Indigenous perspectives in ECEC services: an article by Michelle Hamilton
Providing a deadly service for our Jarjums
- Providing a deadly service for our Jarjums/Boori: quality improvement workbook (PDF 1.3 MB)
- What does the National Quality Framework mean for our children? (PDF 566 KB)
Grants and funding
Information to support families
We've produced a flyer for parents and carers that details the importance of ECEC for Aboriginal children.
Download the flyer: It's important our Jarjums continue to learn and grow (PDF 477 KB)
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day
In 2026, the Department of Education hosted the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day event in Maitland, bringing more than 500 children came together for a day of celebration, culture, learning and connection.
Children enjoyed dancing with Emma Memma and participated in a range of cultural activities which were delivered by members of the local Aboriginal community, including a special performance by Mindaribba Preschool. The day also featured and an interactive science show and opportunities for children to engage with baby animals, creating a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved.
More information
Have a question? To get in touch with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Early Education and Care team, email ECE.aboriginalengagement@det.nsw.edu.au or call 1800 619 113.
You can also learn how we support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander access.
Last modified date
01/09/2026
Business unit contact email
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Executive director
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Executive director’s business unit
Communication & Engagement