The NSW Department of Education is committed to Closing the Gap by strengthening Aboriginal led solutions, formal partnerships and shared decision making across early learning, schooling, training, employment pathways and Aboriginal Languages.

A major milestone has been reached in early childhood education and care, with more Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children accessing quality early learning than ever before. Through culturally responsive and inclusive programs, community led approaches and strong partnerships, the department is helping build strong foundations for identity, belonging, lifelong learning and success.

This commitment extends across the education and training pathway. The department is working to ensure Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children, young people and learners experience education that reflects their cultures, communities and aspirations.

Aboriginal led education and training

The department is supporting Aboriginal led education and training by investing in Aboriginal Community Controlled Registered Training Organisations. This work strengthens the role of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) in designing, delivering and leading education and training that responds to community priorities.

Through Skills and Workforce programs, a Community of Practice has been established with Aboriginal owned and operated training organisations, in partnership with the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group Inc. This collaboration supports self determination by giving communities greater influence over education, training and employment pathways.

Investment is also supporting improved training facilities, culturally responsive learning environments, mentoring and tailored support for learners. New and updated resources, along with travel support for students in regional and remote areas, are helping reduce barriers and expand access.

Closing the Gap Priority Reform 1

The department is progressing Closing the Gap Priority Reform 1 by strengthening formal partnerships and shared decision making with Aboriginal partners. This includes working with the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group Inc. (NSW AECG) and ACCOs to ensure Aboriginal voices are involved early, influence decisions and help shape priorities, programs and outcomes.

Current work also includes Priority Reform 1 in Practice activity to support staff to better understand what genuine partnership looks like in everyday decision making. This includes professional learning, practical resources and opportunities to share examples of strong practice through Viva Engage and the Priority Reform 1 Challenge.

Key actions

Key actions include:

• deepening partnerships with the NSW AECG and ACCOs
• strengthening Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander student voice across the department and in partnership with the NSW AECG
• supporting professional learning and resources to help staff progress the five Closing the Gap Priority Reforms
• embedding Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander knowledges, histories and perspectives across curriculum and learning
• building culturally responsive practice across schools, early learning settings and training pathways
• strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander families and communities
• supporting Aboriginal led pathways across early learning, schooling, training and employment.

Together, these efforts are helping create culturally responsive and inclusive learning environments where Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander learners feel valued, connected and supported to succeed.