This paper explores evidence-based approaches to supporting students with complex needs and challenging behaviour, highlighting the critical role of family engagement and school–family partnerships in improving student wellbeing and educational outcomes.

The report of the Expert Panel on Students With Complex Needs and Challenging Behaviour, also referred to as the Shaddock Report, recommends that schools respond to these students’ needs by working not only with the individual child, but with the family as a whole.

It is the shared vision of ARACY and Families ACT that the findings in this paper will support schools and related organisations to strengthen parent engagement practices, contributing to improved outcomes for students and their families across the ACT.