ABOUT US

Our Purpose, Objectives,
Values & Governance

Our Purpose

Established in 2006, Families ACT is a peak body supporting our 35 member organisations working with vulnerable children and families in the Australian Capital Territory. We work to improve the wellbeing of vulnerable and marginalised children and families, so that all children and families in the ACT can thrive and achieve their fullest potential.

Our Priorities

Advocacy and Awareness
We raise awareness of, and advocate for, local and regional issues impacting vulnerable and disadvantaged children and families amongst government, community and other key stakeholders. 

Research and Policy
We lead, facilitate and support research to understand current and emerging policy challenges and improve policy responses.

Sector Development
We build capacity and enhance collaboration through development, training, and knowledge-sharing within and beyond our membership network.

Strategic Plan 2025-2030

Families ACT Strategic Plan 2025-2030 released
In March 2025, Families ACT released in Strategic Plan 2025-2030. This Strategic Plan, available here, provides an outlines of Families ACT’s goals, which include:

  1. Increased shared understanding of the drivers of and solutions to childhood vulnerability in the ACT through evidence-based research, policy and frameworks which are accessible, practical and integrated.

  2. Increase responses to childhood vulnerability in the ACT through advocacy with government, community, and other key stakeholders that prioritises and elevates the voices of children and families.

  3. Support the development and growth of the community services working with children and families in the ACT through knowledge exchange, partnerships, training and networking with a focus on current and future sector challenges.

  4. Provide leadership for a shared vision for the wellbeing of current and future generations of children and families in the ACT.

Our Principles

Inclusion
Ensuring a safe and empowering environment where all children and families are valued and engaged.

Sustainability
Supporting the sustainability of community organisations and their capacity to grow and lead.

Leadership
Representing the interests and needs of members through the development of shared goals and delivery of collective action.

Collaboration
Working in meaningful partnership with all members and stakeholders to achieve positive and enduring change.

Our Values

Equity
Promote fairness, opportunity and empowering in places, spaces and systems to enable children, families and communities to thrive.

Integrity
Operating with transparency, responsibility and accountability as the territory peak with members, funders and children and families in the ACT.

Social determinants approach
Recognising and strengthening the broader social determinants that influence outcomes for children and families.

Governance + Reports