Local member Melissa Price says four Durack communities MIGHT receive funding to help parents assist their kids’ schooling.
Ms Price said Broome, Derby (Mowanjum), Fitzroy Crossing (St George Ranges), and Port Hedland (South Hedland) were among 31 sites shortlisted for the next round of funding, which will be reduced to 25 after consultation with each of the shortlisted communities.
Durack towns shortlisted for HIPPY funding
27 May 2014
Federal Member for Durack Melissa Price has welcomed today’s announcement that four Durack communities have been shortlisted for the next round of the Home Interaction Programme for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY).
HIPPY is a $100m Australian Government-funded initiative which helps Indigenous communities put their children on the path to school success.
Ms Price said Broome, Derby (Mowanjum), Fitzroy Crossing (St George Ranges), and Port Hedland (South Hedland) were among 31 sites shortlisted for the next round of funding, which will be reduced to 25 after consultation with each of the shortlisted communities.
“HIPPY gives parents the opportunity to play an active role in shaping the future school success for local children and it’s great to see that four Durack communities are in the mix for the next round of the programme,” Ms Price said.
“I know how valuable the HIPPY programme will be for residents living in these communities, and I will be fighting to ensure that all four Durack communities that have been shortlisted receive this funding.
“However, this is just the beginning and I encourage everyone in these Durack communities to get involved in the consultation process and have their say to ensure their town has the best opportunity for success.”
The Brotherhood of St Laurence and HIPPY Australia, which manage the $100 million programme, will be undertaking the community consultation sessions.
A local consultation session is expected to be held sometime between June 2014 and September 2014, with the Brotherhood of St Laurence and HIPPY Australia to advise the specific time and location closer to the date.
HIPPY, which starts in the year before formal schooling, is a two-year home-based parenting and early childhood learning programme which empowers parents and carers to be their child’s first teacher.
For more information, please visit www.hippyaustralia.org.au or www.education.gov.au/hippy