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About us

As the peak body for child and family services in Victoria and Tasmania, we strengthen and guide the sector, building resilience, collaboration and shared success.

Last updated: 25 Nov 2024

The Centre

As the leader and peak body in child and family services in Victoria and Tasmania, The Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare (the Centre) proudly represents over 150 organisations, spanning the entire sector from proactive prevention and early intervention to the critical provision of out-of-home care.

Our Vision

We advocate for the rights of vulnerable young people and families across Victoria and Tasmania, ensuring their voices are heard, their safety is prioritised, their education is accessible, and connections to family, community, and culture are preserved.

Our purpose

We strengthen and guide the sector, building resilience, collaboration and shared success.

As the voice of organisations and individuals dedicated to advancing child and family wellbeing, we set the standards for professional education and practice in child and family services.

Our values

Analysis and reflection

We test knowledge and ideas based on evidence, research and best practice.

Ethical decision-making

We handle information with care and confidence and evaluate and make choices based on ethical principles.

Collaboration

We share knowledge, time, information and skills and seek the input and involvement of our members and other organisations in the sector.

Creativity

We are willing to do things differently, try new approaches, and encourage creative thought.

How we create impact

Our Programs and Projects

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Our team

Expertise, compassion, and unwavering dedication.

Across Victoria and Tasmania, our team is made up of professionals from diverse backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives and ideas that enrich our work.

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Our story

Since its inception in 1912, the Centre has played a pivotal role in shaping child welfare in Victoria, evolving from a small voluntary movement into a leading authority in the sector. Established amid a growing recognition of the inadequacies in child protection systems, the Centre’s early dedication laid the foundation for a more structured approach to addressing child and family welfare.

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Our areas of expertise

Education

Strengthening educational outcomes for those most in need.

Out-of-Home Care

Innovation in high-quality care and holistic support.

Working With Families

Clearing a path to services and support.

Workforce Capacity Building

Guiding towards excellence by empowering professionals.

Lived Experience

Amplify the voices of those with lived experience.

Our Reconciliation Action Plan

Our vision for reconciliation is that all children, young people and families, including First Nations peoples across Victoria, are safely surrounded by family and connected to their communities, with access to culturally safe services and support when needed.

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Our members