Kids First Australia celebrates 130 Years at Government House Victoria
Kids First Australia was honoured to mark its 130th anniversary at Government House Victoria on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
The afternoon tea, hosted by our Patron-in-Chief, her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, recognised the organisation’s long-standing contribution to the wellbeing of children and families.
In March 1896, community leaders first gathered at Government House with a shared belief: that children deserved protection, dignity and opportunity, even when systems of support were limited or absent. One hundred and thirty years later, that commitment remains at the heart of Kids First’s work.
During the event, Her Excellency reflected on Melbourne’s development since the 1830s and the evolving social needs of children and families across generations. The occasion provided an opportunity to acknowledge both the organisation’s history and its contemporary reach.
Today, Kids First Australia supports more than 13,000 individuals annually across Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales and Western Australia. The organisation employs 385 staff and is supported by 230 volunteers. Its service offering spans early childhood through to young adulthood, strengthened by the 2023 integration of Whitelion.
Board Chair Sandy Forbes reflected on the stewardship that has sustained the organisation across wars, economic depression and periods of significant social reform.
“Longevity of this kind does not happen by accident,” she said. “It is built on innovation, courage and persistence and on the unwavering commitment to place children at the centre.”
The anniversary gathering followed internal recognition of the milestone at a staff Town Hall, marking a year of celebration and reflection across the organisation.
As Kids First Australia enters its 130th year, its purpose remains unchanged: to improve life outcomes for children and young people and strengthen the families who care for them.