Researchers say children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are behind their peers when it comes to accessing early education and care.
Migrant and refugee children are accessing early-childhood education at lower rates than their peers, putting them at greater risk of development issues.
A new study has found children from migrant and refugee backgrounds are more likely to be developmentally vulnerable when starting school, causing repercussions which could carry into adulthood. Researchers say a collaborative response is needed from government, early-education providers and providers of settlement services.