Major social, demographic and economic changes in Australia over the last 50 years have dramatically altered the conditions in which families are raising children. There is evidence that a significant number of children are facing worsening developmental and social outcomes as a result of this ‘social climate change’.

The paper includes: a synthesis of evidence regarding societal change and its impact on children, families and communities; the response of governments to these changes; and what is known about effective
services, service systems and government policies. The paper also includes a review of evidence regarding integrated service delivery, service systems and policies, and an analysis of current opportunities in NSW and Queensland for greater service integration.

This paper was prepared by the Centre for Community Child Health, and commissioned by The Benevolent Society (TBS) to provide advice on how to move towards greater integration of the various elements of support and / or services needed by children and their families.