If we value our children then it is time to fix the workforce that supports and nurtures them

Organised by the Human Services Training Advisory Council and
the Early Childhood Workforce Advisory Group (ECWAG)

wish to thank the SPONSORS and guests who helped make the event a fabulous success.

One hundred and forty guests enjoyed an evening at the Holiday for the Human Services Training Advisory Council (HSTAC) public forum "No More Playing Around", last Wednesday night.

Guests had the opportunity to participate in an informative discussion after hearing a panel of experts from around Australia who shared their knowledge about early childhood workforce development issues.

Well known local activist for child protection, Charlie King (ABC) was on hand together with three interstate panelists to provide his insights into the issues and to answer any questions from the audience.

The panel discussion was ably facilitated by Graeme Parsons, Darwin based writer, editor and mediator.

Host for the evening, Barbara Pitman (EO HSTAC) said "the evening was a great success. It allowed for public discussion of the major issues faced by the early childhood workforce and a fabulous opportunity to discuss important strategies for action".

People who attended the forum observed:

"There should be more debates of this kind at national, state and local levels."
"The panel had a wide base of knowledge and shared their combined knowledge generously with us."
"Very good exploration of the issues."
"Good blend of informative speakers."

The sense of solidarity in the room was evident when the audience was keen to stay on to discuss common issues and interests way beyond closing time.