“There is a huge social cost when children’s wellbeing needs are not met,” the report states.
“For every child and young person who needs intensive services, there is a significant impact on families and communities.”
The report draws on The Nest – a framework developed by the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth, and also highlights the work of the Early Years Catalyst, which has mapped 10 key systems – ranging from health and early learning to housing and social security – that underpin early childhood development.
It states there is a need for coordinated investment across all levels of government to address issues before they escalate, and that while late intervention will always be necessary, governments could save money by acting earlier.
State governments bear the brunt of short-term costs, but the federal government stands to gain long-term benefits from early intervention through increased tax revenue and reduced reliance on welfare, the report notes.
“Developmental challenges don’t resolve themselves. Without timely support, they often escalate into more complex issues that are harder and more expensive to address later,” Forrest said.
“This isn’t about spending more – it’s a wake-up call. Australia must view and invest in the early years holistically – it’s one of the smartest actions we can take as a society.
New partnerships between government, communities, philanthropy and the social sector are critical for intergenerational change.”
The Front Project chief executive Dr Caroline Croser-Barlow said acting early would also strengthen the economy.
“Every year we delay shifting to earlier support, we lock in billions in avoidable costs,” she said.
“A coordinated national approach is the only way to reverse this trend and deliver the change our children deserve.”
The Cost of Late Intervention report lead researcher Megan O’Connell said the analysis showed the cost of late intervention “far outpaced inflation and population growth”.
“This is a clear signal that the problem is worsening, not improving,” she said.
“One of the biggest barriers to effective change is the lack of regular, transparent data that tracks early intervention spending and outcomes.
“Without it, we can’t know if policies are working — or if resources are being used effectively.”
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