Construction begins on Broken Hill’s new Aboriginal Child and Family Centre

Tuesday, 30 September 2025

The Minns Labor Government is increasing access to early learning and health screening for Aboriginal families in Western NSW, with construction beginning on Broken Hill’s new Aboriginal Child and Family Centre (ACFC).

The ACFC is being delivered in partnership with Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation, which was awarded the contract following a competitive open tender process.

Broken Hill is a beneficiary of the NSW Government’s $100 million ACFC Expansion and Enhancement Program, which is boosting early childhood education, family supports and care services across the state.

While designed to provide integrated, culturally appropriate and needs-based services for Aboriginal families and children, ACFCs also operate as community hubs, providing universal early learning services for all families, alongside dedicated health and community spaces.

The Minns Labor Government has embarked on historic reform of the child protection and out-of-home care (OOHC) system, with a goal to address the overrepresentation of Aboriginal children in OOHC.

Currently, nearly 45% of all children in OOHC are Aboriginal, despite being only 3.4% of the state’s population. This investment in Broken Hill will empower local Aboriginal communities to keep families strong and children safe, thriving and connected.

The new ACFC in Broken Hill is expected to be operational in early 2027.

For more information on ACFCs, visit: https://dcj.nsw.gov.au/service-providers/working-with-us/how-we-work-with-you/aboriginal-community-controlled-organisations/aboriginal-child-and-family-centres.html

Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington said:

“Aboriginal Child and Family Centres are absolute game changers, offering everything young families and children need to thrive, from early education to health and community services.

“It’s great to be in Broken Hill with Maari Ma today to kick off this exciting project – working together we’re build a centre which will change lives, for generations to come. 

“By partnering with Maari Ma, a trusted local Aboriginal organisation, we are investing in an Aboriginal-led service to improve outcomes for kids and families in Broken Hill.”

Acting Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty Jodie Harrison said:

“The Minns Labor government is committed to closing the gap for Aboriginal families and children by assuring they receive the essential early education and health services needed in rural communities.

“We know the best way to close the gap is by Aboriginal people shaping and driving outcomes for Aboriginal people.

“Having an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation like Maari Ma run the centre will ensure it can provide culturally appropriate services for Aboriginal families.”

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:

“Maari Ma has a solid history of service provision in the far west.

“They understood far west communities and how to deliver sustainable services in these areas

“This project will assist in strengthening indigenous family relationships and improving access to services. I welcome the funding and thank the Minister Kate Washington.”

Maari Ma CEO Richard Weston said:

“Maari Ma is proud to be in partnership with the Department of Communities and Justice in the establishment of a new Aboriginal Child and Family Centre in Broken Hill—a major new initiative launched in our 30th anniversary year.

“The centre will provide a culturally grounded space focused on early childhood education, development and family wellbeing.

“This is a substantial new direction for Maari Ma, and one that goes to the heart of our purpose—supporting the growth and development of Aboriginal children and their families.”