Better policies for child health equity

February 2025

Every child deserves equitable access to the experiences that shape lifelong health, development and wellbeing.

We used existing large-scale data to model how combining or ‘stacking’ early childhood policies can reduce inequities in children’s development. We quickly and cost effectively generated evidence for more precise policy responses, tailored to the right populations, timing and intensity.

 

Our impact

Stronger partnerships

For a decade, we have collaborated with 10 research partners and 20+ policy leaders, to ensure evidence aligns with real policy needs. 

Data-informed decisions

We’re improving how childhood disadvantage is understood, measured, and monitored by using existing data from 8 Australian and international datasets to better guide policy action.

Policy influence

Our research is informing key policy agendas, with 16 policy citations, including one paper being spotlighted in Victoria’s Wellbeing Strategy. 

 

Next steps

In the third phase of Changing Children's Chances, we will:

  • identify where and when inequities emerge 
  • test combinations or ‘stacks’ of early childhood policy interventions
  • codesign solutions with policymakers, service providers and families
  • and strengthen international partnerships.

 

 

Our mission is to deliver robust evidence to inform more effective and precise policy decisions. Our vision is to achieve equitable improvements in children’s health, development and wellbeing within a generation.

 

The Changing Children’s Chances project (2025-2028) is funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council Partnership Projects (2040703). Murdoch Children’s Research Institute are partnering with The Australian Government Department of Social Services, The Victorian Health Promotion Foundation, Brotherhood of St Laurence, Beyond Blue, The Australian Government Department of Education, The Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, The Victorian Department of Health, The Victorian Council of Social Service, and The Australian Government Department of The Treasury.