An extra $5 million in funding has been allocated to the ACU-led ENVISAGE (Enabling Visions and Growing Expectations) program under the National Early Childhood Program (NECP).
This grant will allow for more children, aged from birth to eight, with disability or developmental concerns and their families to be supported in the next two years.
ENVISAGE is an evidence-based program that empowers, supports and connects caregivers raising children with developmental concerns or disabilities. It can be delivered online or in person.
Chief investigator Professor Laura Miller said the funding was a direct result of the dedication, hard work, and passion of the national and international ENVISAGE team and industry partners.
“We are excited to continue delivering ENVISAGE and achieving impactful outcomes for caregivers, families, and communities across Australia,” she said.
“The extension of grant funding will enable us to continue delivering evidence based essential support to families and careers as they navigate the joys and complexities of raising children with developmental concerns or disabilities.”
The Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said the extra funding will ensure more children with disability or developmental concerns and their families are supported.
A $6.9m grant in 2023 kicked off the ACU-led consortium to deliver the program that was co-designed by parents, service providers and researchers in Australia and Canada, and includes a dedicated co-designed First Peoples program.
Since then, and in collaboration with founding institutions, ENVISAGE has partnered with over 30 industry partners to deliver ENVISAGE Families and ENVISAGE First Peoples in all states and territories.
