The challenge
Australian governments – local, state, and federal – make substantial investments in early childhood. Without data, it's difficult for governments to know whether their investment is making a difference.
Our response
In 2003, the Centre for Community Child Health hosted a two-day invitation only national meeting of researchers, policymakers and clinicians from the health and education sectors.
The meeting aimed to determine if the Canadian-developed Early Development Instrument (EDI) would be a useful tool if it was adapted for Australia.
The Canadian EDI was designed to measure the developmental health and wellbeing of populations of young children at school entry.
Following strong encouragement from stakeholders at the meeting, the Centre was supported to conduct a trial of the adapted EDI. This was known as the Australian Early Development Index (AEDI) and was delivered in over 60 communities throughout the country.
Today, the AEDI is known as the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC). Every three years, the census delivers evidence to support policy, planning and action for health, education and community support.
In 2021, there were 535 communities with an individual profile of AEDC results. Over 95% of Australia's children starting their first year of full-time school were assessed.
‘The AEDC has a vital role in shaping early childhood programs, policies and services. AEDC data enables educators, communities and governments to take action to reduce inequity and respond more effectively to children’s developmental needs.’