The Targeted Earlier Intervention (TEI) Reform Directions Information Sessions have now concluded in Greater Western Sydney. Four sessions were held across Greater Western Sydney: Liverpool, Penrith, Springwood and Blacktown.

Anthony Shannon, Acting Director of Families & Place, Programs & Service Design, NSW Department of Family & Community, presented on the TEI Program Reform Directions at each session and took questions from attendees. The presentation explained the implementation timelines (see image below) and the TEI reform directions which are:

1. Improved outcomes for clients for clients of TEI services
2. Create a service system continuum grounded in evidence – informed practice
3. Target resources to those with the greatest needs
4. Facilitate district decision-making on the design and delivery of local services
5. Increase flexibility so that the clients are the centre of the system.

Some of the key points which came out of the presentation were:

• It was reaffirmed that competitive tendering was not the preferred option within the TEI reform process, rather individual contracts would involve negotiations between FACS and services based around meeting identified community needs
• Understandably there were a number of stakeholders who asked about how the Resource Allocation Model, however as it is still early on the reform timeline the model has yet to be developed
• Community Development was emphasised as an important component of TEI. It will be one of the major funding streams within TEI and an outcomes framework will be developed with community development in mind. It is anticipated more information should be released towards the end of September
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander programs and consultations were frequently mentioned as a priority area for FACS
• Questions around what data FACS will be utilising around the Resource Allocation Model as SEIFA data was used within the reform directions paper, WSCF will be urging FACS to utilise more local data to reflect the need for the support of more disadvantaged communities within Greater Western Sydney are met and that TEI remains community centred
• While Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities were not noted in the reform directions paper, there will be flexibility for local districts to identify their own priority groups in addition to those identified in the paper.

It was great seeing so many members of the industry in attendance and we look forward to continuing work with the Leadership Group, Stakeholders within the TEI reforms, communities and FACS.