The Marrung 2026–2036: First Nations education strategy has now been launched. This is a significant milestone for First Nations education in Victoria.
Marrung 2026–2036 sets out a shared vision for a Victorian education system that values and respects First Nations cultures, knowledge and identity. It supports First Nations learners to achieve their aspirations.
The strategy promotes culturally safe, inclusive and responsive learning environments. It aims to help First Nations children feel a strong sense of identity, belonging and connection to Country.
The strategy was developed through a co‑design process with key First Nations stakeholders and education partners. It sets out 6 key priorities and 31 actions to guide practice across kindergartens, long day care services and early years programs.
For the first time, Marrung 2026–2036 brings Victoria’s 3 education systems – government, Catholic and independent – together under one statewide approach. It is designed to support First Nations learners from early childhood through to the skills and technical and further education sector.
Early childhood education and care (ECEC) has an important role in achieving the vision of Marrung 2026–2036. The experiences children have in their earliest years can strengthen identity, culture and belonging. They can also establish strong foundations for their future learning.
Key actions for early childhood services
A number of the actions within Marrung are particularly relevant to ECEC services and the early childhood workforce.
These include:
- strengthening culturally safe and responsive learning environments
- increasing opportunities for First Nations cultures, histories and perspectives to be embedded in learning
- supporting the workforce to build its cultural knowledge and capability
- supporting, strengthening and expanding service provision by Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.
Marrung also places a strong emphasis on genuine partnerships with First Nations families, communities and organisations. It recognises the important role they play in supporting children’s learning, development, identity and connection to culture and Country.
ECEC services will have access to resources to build cultural understanding and include First Nations perspectives in everyday practice.
How you can engage with Marrung
We encourage services to:
- familiarise yourselves with the 6 priorities and 31 actions in Marrung 2026–2036
- consider how your existing practices contribute to culturally safe, inclusive and responsive environments for First Nations children and families
- continue to strengthen relationships with First Nations families, communities and local organisations
- take part in upcoming regional information sessions.
Regional roadshow information sessions will start in October. They will provide an opportunity to learn more about the strategy and discuss what Marrung means locally. They will also explore how education sectors and communities can work together to support implementation.
The department will share further information about implementation, including resources and supports for early childhood services, as planning progresses.
Find out more
For more information, refer to Marrung.
For further enquiries, contact the team by email: marrung@education.vic.gov.au
Updated