Co-development framework: Boori Milumba

Developing an intensive early childhood education and care program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children

This framework emerges from a collaborative project to co-develop an evidence-based, intensive, and holistic early childhood education and care program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children at Cullunghutti Aboriginal Child and Family Centre, Nowra, NSW.

Led by SNAICC – National Voice for our Children in partnership with Parkville Institute, Cullunghutti Aboriginal Child and Family Centre, and Social Ventures Australia, this project aims to empower children to enter school as confident, capable learners, who are strong in their culture and sense of identity.

The framework details the principles, benefits, challenges and processes of co-development, with a distinctive ACCO service-led approach. At its core, this approach privileges the voice and leadership of ACCOs, recognising the deep understanding they have of their communities, including their aspirations, strengths, needs, and the nuanced contexts in which they operate. The co-development process is deeply rooted in the cultural values of ACCOs and their communities. It is our hope that this framework acts as a meaningful guide to those seeking to embark on future co-development projects.