The submission reveals a concerning rise in developmental vulnerability among country children, particularly in emotional maturity – a key predictor of later mental health challenges. Factors such as natural disasters, cost-of-living pressures and the lingering effects of the pandemic are compounding these issues. Our data shows that children in remote areas are presenting with complex needs earlier, yet face long delays in accessing specialist support due to workforce shortages and fragmented systems.
Royal Far West’s submission outlines what’s working – including our multidisciplinary, trauma-informed care model delivered via telehealth, in-community and at our Centre for Country Children in Manly. Programs like the Psychiatry Assessment Clinic (PAC) and disaster recovery initiatives have shown strong outcomes, improving access and resilience for children and families. However, the submission also identifies critical gaps: lack of timely access, inconsistent funding and inadequate coordination between health, education and social services.
To address these challenges, we’re advocating for place-based, wraparound services, better integration across sectors and sustainable funding models that reflect the true scale of need. We call for expanded digital mental health services, early screening programs and stronger support for educators and carers. Most importantly, we urge policymakers to listen to the voices of children and families – and to act on what they hear.
Every child deserves the chance to thrive, no matter where they live.