Vol 8 No 1 January 2008 - March 2008: ISSN 1445-7253
A peer-reviewed electronic journal from the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet
Current topics
This section of the Bulletin contains information about major public events, new programs and relevant staff appointments. If you would like to contribute to this section, contact us.
Indigenous child index launched in Western Australia
The following information has been adapted from information provided by ABC news and the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research website.
The Indigenous Australian Early Development Index was launched in Perth on 20 January 2008 by Deputy Prime Minister, Julia Gillard. The index is an attempt to address inequalities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children when they begin formal schooling.
It involves a checklist questionnaire which contains over 100 questions measuring physical health and wellbeing, social competence, emotional maturity, language and cognitive skills, communication skills, and general knowledge.
The launch of the index follows successful trials with over 30,000 children in 414 communities. The project is expected to extend to other states next year.
The Australian Early Development Index: Building Better Communities for Children project is conducted by the Centre for Community Child Health at the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, in partnership with the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, Perth. The Federal Government will provide nearly $16 million to the project.
- For further information:
- New health index to assess Indigenous children
View media release: ABC - Indigenous child-health plan released
View video: ABC News - Aboriginal child index launched in WA
View media release: Sydney Morning Herald (20 January 2008) - Start early to boost Indigenous student services
View media release: Telethon Institute for Child Health Research - View website: Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne (for general information on the index)
- View website: Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, Perth
- New health index to assess Indigenous children
