The work we do with children and families has an impact on who children are and who they become. Scroll down to read stories of the impact we have had on the wellbeing of children and families.

Our impact at a glance

3,117

children provided high-quality early childhood education and care

593

children with disabilities supported with early intervention

137

families facing challenges supported to be enrolled in mainstream settings

138

children in supported playgroups and activities

*Data from 2024

A message from our CEO

"We see the whole child, their world and their family. We respect their rights and encourage them to participate and have powerful voices."
Kay Turner, Chief Executive Officer

Early experiences are vital to children's wellbeing

At SDN, we’re building an equitable world where all children thrive. We know from research that children thrive when their whole wellbeing is enhanced. We focus on making sure children have the following:

They are loved and safe

They are healthy

They have a positive sense of culture and identity

They are learning

They are participating

They have material basics

Our stories

Seeing and sensing the world: Rayah's story of inclusion

At SDN Beranga Autism-Specific Preschool, we are proud to recognise Rayah Clark, one of our dedicated educators. Rayah’s neurodivergence and lived experience as an autistic person brings depth, insight, and a unique perspective to her practice.

From Fear to flourishing: A family’s road to healing

Learn about the transformative impact of SDN’s Thriving Families Framework. This family story highlights the heart of what our Family Preservation caseworkers do: they walk alongside families in crisis, offering tools, strategies, and unwavering encouragement, empowering vulnerable families to rewrite their futures.

SDN bridges cultures and neurodivergence

As we recognise Autism Acceptance Month, we’re reminded of how SDN supports autistic children and their families — not only in early learning centres but also across our Family Preservation and support programs. Each week, our caseworkers and practitioners walk alongside families who are navigating new diagnoses, seeking assessments, or trying to understand behaviours that feel overwhelming.

New beginnings: How an SDN scholarship transformed Leo’s early years

Discover how SDN’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Early Childhood Scholarship, changed Leo's life and gave him the support he needed to thrive.

How a scholarship to SDN Milperra gave Bodhi a head start

Learn how SDN Milperra is supporting children like Bodhi through inclusive education, using tailored strategies and sensory-rich experiences to build confidence, connection, and school readiness.

SDN Lois Barker, Waterloo transforms practice with visual communications

Learn how SDN Lois Barker, Waterloo is shaping their inclusive educational program and transforming practice with neurodiverse and neurotypical children, by using visual communications.

History of SDN

We are a not-for-profit organisation with a rich history, serving children and families for more than 120 years.

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Child Safe Organisation

We are a Child Safe Organisation whose purpose is to promote and enhance children’s wellbeing, learning and development in inclusive environments. 

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Aboriginal scholarships

Our scholarship programs enable children to access quality early education, preparing them for their transition to school.

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