Fiona Ward, Deputy Chief Executive, DCP recently participated in the Home Stretch Symposium, as part of the ‘Extending Care to 21 in Australia’ panel. Fiona highlighted South Australia’s current programs to help young people in care to transition into adulthood, and spoke about some of the challenges we are facing.
We know that most young people are staying at home longer for a range of reasons, including studying and cost of living considerations. Young people in care deserve and need the same supports.
Fiona Ward, Deputy Chief Executive, Department for Child Protection (DCP), discussed this issue at the recent Home Stretch Symposium, as part of the ‘Extending Care to 21 in Australia’ panel.
Fiona highlighted South Australia’s commitment to helping young people in care transition into adulthood, noting that this year almost 70% of young people who turned 18 are being financially supported to continue in their placements. This is primarily occurring through 2 programs:
- Over 18 Education Initiative
This initiative provides a carer subsidy and quarterly education grant to carers of young people up to 25 years old who are completing high school, attending university or undertaking training. - Stability in Family-Based Care program
This program, which came into effect on 1 January 2019, extends payments to all family-based carers until the young person turns 21 (subject to eligibility criteria). It also provides quarterly case liaison support for the carer and young person to help with the transition process, or more intensive case management through post care support services when needed.
These programs aim to help young people achieve a higher level of engagement with education and employment, improved housing stability and reduced interaction with the justice system.
Fiona further talked about work underway to address challenges facing our current transition programs. This includes resolving support gaps for young people who have a severe disability and cannot live independently, with ongoing discussions occurring between DCP and the National Disability Insurance Agency. Fiona also discussed the importance of young people in residential care receiving equitable support, with potential models and solutions currently being considered.
Event: Home Stretch Symposium
Panel: Implementation of Extended Care to 21 in Australia
Facilitator: Julie Alexander (professional facilitator)
Panel members (L to R):
- Mathew Healey, Executive Director, Engagement and Innovation, Department of Communities (TAS)
- Fiona Ward, Deputy Chief Executive, Department for Child Protection (SA)
- Karen Lacy, Manager, Children, Policy and Service Design, department of Communities (WA)
- Beth Allen, A/Director, Children and Families Policy Department of Health and Human Services (VIC)
