Royal Far West contributed to the inquiry through a written submission and evidence provided by former CEO Jacqui Emery during a public hearing. We are pleased to see that many of the challenges and solutions raised by Royal Far West have been reflected in the Committee’s findings and recommendations.
Why this matters for country families
The inquiry examined why many families struggle to access developmental screening, assessments and early intervention services during the early years of a child’s life.
For families in rural and remote Australia, access to support can be particularly difficult. In our submission, we highlighted workforce shortages, long waiting times, and a lack of specialist services in many country communities.
During the public hearing, Jacqui Emery told the Committee that it is far more effective to support children early than to address complex needs years later. Delayed assessments often mean children miss out on support when it can have the greatest impact. By the time some children receive an assessment, their challenges have become more difficult and more costly to address.
We also highlighted reports from GPs across regional NSW about growing difficulties accessing paediatric assessments and specialist support for children with developmental concerns. In some rural communities, families are waiting up to two years to see a paediatrician, while referral lists have closed altogether in others.
What the report recommends
The Committee made six recommendations aimed at improving access to early childhood health and development checks across NSW. These include continued investment in Child and Family Hubs, developmental checks delivered through early childhood education and community centres, increased access to allied health and paediatric services in regional areas, and longer-term funding for screening and early intervention programs.
The report also recommends a future inquiry focused on improving access for vulnerable groups, including children and families living in rural and remote communities. Many of these recommendations align closely with the issues and solutions Royal Far West raised during the inquiry.
Looking ahead
Royal Far West particularly welcomes the recommendation to further examine access for vulnerable groups, including children and families in rural and remote communities.
Every child deserves access to the support they need, regardless of where they live. Early identification and intervention can make a significant difference to a child’s development and wellbeing.
The NSW Government is expected to respond to the report’s recommendations by February 2027. Royal Far West will continue advocating for practical solutions that improve access to care and help country children reach their full potential.
You can find Royal Far West’s submission here
Click here to read the new report by the NSW Legislative Assembly Committee on Community Services