Shape the Future of Inclusion
Every child deserves the chance to participate, feel valued and know they belong.
Yet across Australia today, children with disability and developmental differences are still excluded from the very places where they should feel safe, included and able to grow — early learning centres, classrooms, playgrounds and community activities.
Children are:
- Turned away from early learning settings because their needs are considered “too complex”
- Placed on reduced hours or excluded from school activities
- Left out of friendships and everyday participation
- More likely to experience bullying and social isolation
This is not rare. It is systemic.
For families, this often means navigating fragmented systems, advocating repeatedly for their child, and carrying the emotional and practical weight of trying to secure the support their child needs to thrive.
The reality facing too many children
Across Australia, the evidence shows how widespread the challenge remains.
Behind these statistics are children missing out on connection, confidence and opportunity.
When exclusion happens early in life, its impact compounds over time — shaping education, wellbeing and long-term outcomes.
Children begin to see themselves as not fitting in.
Families feel exhausted from constant advocacy.
But this future is not inevitable.
50 years of inclusion in action
For five decades, Koorana has been working alongside children and families to make inclusion real.
Through our integrated, transdisciplinary model, educators, allied health professionals and families work together as one coordinated team around the child.
In our approach:
- Inclusion is embedded in everyday learning environments
- Therapy and education work together rather than separately
- Families are active partners in their child’s development
- Educators gain the confidence and tools to include every child
When inclusion becomes the foundation rather than an afterthought:
- Children develop friendships and confidence
- Families move from fighting systems to seeing their child flourish
- Educators discover that inclusion is achievable and sustainable
For 50 years, Koorana has shown that inclusive approaches change life trajectories.
Our Proven Model for Inclusion That Changes Lives
Evaluation of children participating in our inclusive preschool programs shows what is possible when inclusion is embedded in everyday learning:
- 100% demonstrated measurable developmental progress
- 100% of families reported improved participation and development
- 100% of parents gained confidence supporting their child at home
- 100% progressed toward individual goals
These outcomes show what becomes possible when inclusion moves from intention to everyday practice.
For 50 years, Koorana has demonstrated that inclusion works.
With your partnership, we can extend what works — so more children can access school, community life and the everyday experiences of childhood.
There are many ways you can help.
Join, run or support us in the City2Surf 2026
Every step you run (or walk) in the next City2Surf helps create more inclusive opportunities for children and families. Join Team Koorana and start fundraising today. Registrations are open now!
Interested in making a deeper impact?
Our Philanthropy & Partnerships Manager would welcome the opportunity to speak with you about how your support can help expand inclusive opportunities for children and families. Book a conversation.
Choose to make a major donation.
A major cash injection will advance our building project significantly and bring open day even closer. We have a range of incentives to recognise your generosity. Donate here.
Share the word!
We’d love to reach as many people in the community as possible. If you know a colleague or business who would love to help us, please share our story!
