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The Australian Government’s Children and Family Support (CaFS) program, announced in the federal budget, will bring significant changes for communities, providers and existing Communities for Children partners
As the reforms progress, PLACE is helping communities understand what the changes mean and how they can have a voice in the process
With grant applications expected to close on 29 October 2026, now is the time for communities to make sure local priorities, plans and partnerships are visible to providers preparing submissions.
We’ve published an overview of the reforms, key dates and what communities need to know.
The expected timeline for the program is:
- 18 September 2026: Grant opportunity opens for eligible providers.
- 29 October 2026: Grant applications due.
- January-June 2027: Implementation of outcomes contracting with successful providers.
- 1 July 2027: CaFS Services begin.
Read our full CaFS reform update.
You can also read PLACE’s consultation submission on draft relational contracting documents.