47% of Australian Kids Missing Key Development Targets

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Nearly half of Australian children aren't meeting crucial development targets when starting school - what's causing this alarming decline?

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The 2024 Australian Early Development Census reveals only 52.9% of kids are on track across all five key domains - down from 54.8% in 2021.

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Children considered "developmentally vulnerable" has jumped to 23.5% - with 12.5% now struggling in two or more critical areas.

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The AEDC measured 288,000 children across physical health, social skills, emotional maturity, language abilities, and communication skills.

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While national trends worsen, Indigenous children show surprising resilience - actually improving in language and communication skills

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"Aboriginal-led programs are making a difference and are a major part of the solution," says SNAICC Chief Executive Catherine Liddle.

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Rural and remote areas face the greatest challenges - with over 20% of children there falling behind in multiple development areas.

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"Childcare deserts" and health/education workforce shortages are making the crisis worse for families outside major cities.

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The government aims to have 55% of Indigenous children developmentally on track by 2031 - but experts say more urgent action is needed.

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"Governments must listen, invest and act now if we're serious about closing the gap for our children," urges Liddle.

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