Across Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children continue to face barriers no child should encounter. The effects of colonisation, systemic inequality and intergenerational trauma have led to unequal access to education, healthcare and child protection.
For families living in remote or under-resourced communities, existing support services may be limited or culturally inappropriate. This means children can grow up without access to safe spaces, consistent schooling or the chance to build strong foundations for their future. In communities experiencing high levels of stress, children may also face additional risks to their well-being and development. These issues don’t arise from a lack of care within communities. They’re the result of decades of systems that haven’t served Aboriginal families well. It’s these gaps that 54 Reasons works to address, respectfully, collaboratively and for the long term.
How we work with Aboriginal communities to support children
54 Reasons is committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children by partnering with the people who know their children best, including families, Elders and local leaders. Learn more about 54 Reasons and how we (54 Reasons) fight to protect and fulfil child rights.
Our teams work in every state and the Northern Territory. Many of our staff live within these communities and are trained in culturally appropriate, trauma-informed practice. Together with community partners, we run Australia-wide services that reflect local strengths, priorities and knowledge.
Support begins early and continues as children grow. From early childhood to adolescence, we help families provide safe, connected environments that support learning, well-being and identity. At every stage, we centre the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and support them to speak for themselves.
Programs helping children thrive
54 Reasons’s work with First Nations communities includes proven, community-backed programs that help children thrive on their terms.
Hands on Learning is a practical education program delivered by 54 reasons that helps students thrive by building engagement, confidence and attendance through creative, hands-on projects in areas like construction and hospitality. Delivered in schools across Australia, it supports students to discover their strengths while connecting teachers through a supportive national network.
Play2Learn is a welcoming and fun program for children aged 0–5 and their caregivers, helping little ones learn through play and prepare for school with the support of qualified Early Childhood Specialists. With sessions tailored to each child’s unique interests, it's a chance for families to connect, ask questions and support their children’s development.
Early Learning Centres offer three- and four-year-old kindergarten and childcare services for children in regional and remote communities, helping them get school-ready through play-based learning aligned with the Australian Curriculum. These services celebrate local Aboriginal culture and knowledge, helping children build a strong sense of identity and belonging from the very beginning.
Together, we can build a stronger future for First Nations children
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children have the right to grow up safe, strong and proud of who they are. We work alongside communities to protect that right and to support children to grow into the leaders, carers and changemakers of tomorrow. This work is grounded in trust, shaped by culture and driven by determination. But we can’t do it alone.
Every child deserves a bright future. Your support helps make that future possible. Donate today and be part of the change.