Twenty-eight per cent of children in the ACT are now developmentally vulnerable in one or more domains, placing the territory second-worst in the country despite its relative wealth.

These are the findings of new Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) data, which highlight a widening gap in early childhood outcomes across Canberra, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children experiencing particularly high levels of vulnerability at 52 per cent, while 30 per cent of children from Language Backgrounds Other Than English (LBOTE) are also affected.

Overall developmental progress has declined, with the proportion of children considered “on track” falling from 47 per cent in 2021 to 43 per cent in 2024 – the steepest drop in the ACT since records began in 2009.

Families ACT executive director Rebecca Zapelli said the data reflects a crisis that is often hidden from view.

“Behind these numbers are children missing out on the foundations they need to thrive,” she said. “More than 10,000 disadvantaged families are living in otherwise advantaged parts of Canberra.”

She said the increase in vulnerability among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children –  up nine per cent since 2021 –was particularly concerning and inconsistent with stabilising national trends.

The issue will be a key focus of the Child First Forum, hosted by Families ACT in Canberra on May 12-13, bringing together experts, service providers and policymakers to develop responses.