Our Asks
All Australian children in foster care deserve a fair go, and so do the foster carers who support them. Our campaign calls on the Government to improve access to healthcare, ease the financial burden on foster carers, and provide fairer workplace entitlements, so that every child in foster care can access the support they deserve.
The National Foster Care Sustainability Group is calling on the Government to provide
1. Prioritise access to medical and therapeutic support
Better access and financial supports to meet the needs of all children in out-of-home care, equivalent to a Veteran Gold Card.
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The current system leaves too many children without the medical, therapeutic, and developmental support they need to overcome the trauma, abuse, and neglect often experienced.
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Foster carers are often expected to fill the gaps in the healthcare system without adequate resources, leading to multiple placements and a cycle of unmet needs for children.
2. Reduce financial pressure
Our Asks
Raise the ATO tax-free allowance threshold for foster carers so jurisdictions can better administer their system.
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The financial insecurity that comes with being a foster carer is having a long-term negative impact on children in care. When foster carers struggle to meet a child’s financial needs, it can impact their ability to provide stable and nurturing environments for the children who depend on them.
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This financial strain also exacerbates the gender inequality gap. Data indicates most carers are female, more of them are now working and they are almost always reducing their working hours or moving to lower-paying but more flexible jobs so they can provide the level of care needed.
3. Equitable leave entitlements
Change the National Employment Standards to help foster carers in paid employment to start or continue fostering.
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Foster carers fulfil a parenting-type role but are not currently afforded the same rights as parents. Extending these benefits to foster carers ensures an equitable home experience for children and young people in foster care.
