This paper explores evidence-based approaches to supporting students with complex needs, highlighting the critical role of families and partnerships in creating inclusive, effective school responses across the ACT education systems.

The report of the Expert Panel on Students With Complex Needs and Challenging
Behaviour, also referred to as the Shaddock Report, recommended that in responding to
these children’s needs, schools need to work not just with the student, but with the
family as a whole.


It is the vision of both ARACY and Families ACT that the findings in this paper will
support schools and related organisations to enhance their parent engagement efforts,
thereby supporting improved outcomes for students and their families in the ACT.