A new national strategy for the early years of childhood will seek to better co-ordinate federal spending on health, welfare and education for kids under five, as the Albanese government looks to address intergenerational disadvantage and close gaps in services.

Amid escalating pressures on the federal budget from health, welfare and the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth has ordered a new early years strategy be put in place by September, designed to reduce duplication and address gaps in services.