While this marks the end of an era, we do so with immense pride in the legacy we leave behind — a legacy built on an unwavering commitment to children, families and communities across urban, rural, remote and isolated Australia.

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For more than four decades, Contact has been privileged to pioneer innovative approaches to child and family services, strengthen existing programs, support the development of new services, and contribute to important changes in policy and practice.

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Our work has always been grounded in a belief that children and families living in rural, remote and isolated communities deserve access to the same opportunities, support and services as those in larger and more accessible communities.

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We are proud to have worked alongside communities, families, staff, partner organisations, funders, government and sector leaders to help bring about meaningful and lasting change.

Our decision to close reflects the changing needs of the sector, together with the evolving realities and challenges facing community organisations. Importantly, we recognise that the work we have championed does not end with Contact.

The programs, services, partnerships and approaches we have helped shape will continue to support children, families and communities in new ways.

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We extend our deepest gratitude to the many staff, volunteers, Board members, partners, funders and, most importantly, the communities and families we have had the privilege to serve.

Together, we have built something truly meaningful.

While Contact's chapter has now closed, its impact will continue through the people, services, relationships and communities that have been part of our journey.

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Thank you for being part of 46 years of Contact.

 

1979 — The Foundation

The story of Contact began in 1979, a year designated by the United Nations as the International Year of the Child.

It was a year that marked the beginning of something extraordinary — a vision that children and families living in isolated circumstances and communities should not be disadvantaged simply because of where they lived.

 

In April 1979, June Jeremy was appointed Contact Coordinator, bringing with her the vision, determination and belief that would shape Contact for decades to come.

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Contact’s Lasting Legacy history is being written and will be available through the National Library at the end of 2026