This report outlines the findings of an independent review of best practice in early childhood intervention (ECI), undertaken as part of the implementation of Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021-2031. It makes recommendations in relation to the aims, form, underpinning principles and content of a best practice framework for the delivery of ECI in Australia.

As part of a review of best practice in early childhood intervention to help practitioners, professionals and families ensure all children with developmental concerns have the best possible start in life, this paper provides a summary and analysis of the implications generated in consultations to date.

Integrated community healthcare Hubs may offer a ‘one stop shop’ for service users with complex health and social needs, and more efficiently use service resources. Various policy imperatives exist to implement Hub models of care, however, there is a dearth of research specifically evaluating Hubs targeted at families experiencing adversity.

Early childhood provides a critical opportunity for early intervention and prevention, but barriers to accessing services prevent children and families – often those with the greatest need – from gaining their benefit. This policy brief focuses on the nature and importance of partnerships between parents and professionals.

This study finds that reliance on serum iron test results by general practitioners is leading to significant overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis of iron deficiency in children.