Our Story

With a proud history and progressive mindset, we put kids first through our evidence-informed educational, family and support services, delivered by passionate and talented people. We have been at the heart of community care in Melbourne since 1896.

Kids First is a purpose driven organisation with a vision to see all children and young people thrive in resilient, strong and safe families and communities. 

We have child and family centres in Thomastown and Heidelberg and a growing network of early years centres based on our innovative early education and care model. Our practitioners work across a full spectrum of community service engaging with parents, families, schools and referral partners through to providing one to one counselling and group programs for children and adults to overcome trauma. 

We pride ourselves on pioneering and delivering ground-breaking, evidence-based programs to children, young people and families. Everything we do is underpinned by our guiding principle of ‘HEART’ – Hope, Empowerment, Accountability, Respect and Trust - the values which bind our culture, purpose and vision.

Over the years, Kids First has partnered with thousands of families to bring about change and healing, strengthen family relationships and set children up for brighter futures.