Family-based carers in South Australia now have a dedicated platform to support ongoing reform of the child protection and family support system through the establishment of the Carer Council – a key recommendation from Dr Fiona Arney’s Independent Inquiry into Foster and Kinship Care.
The Carer Council amplifies the voices of carers and provides the Minister for Child Protection with independent advice on matters related to foster and kinship care in South Australia that contributes to the design of policy, practice and reform surrounding foster and kinship care in this state.
The membership of the Carer Council was formed through a comprehensive, independent recruitment process where all carers in South Australia had the opportunity to apply. All members are active carers, with experience as a family-based carer.
The Carer Council comprises 12 members and reflects a diverse cross-section of active foster and kinship carers, including Aboriginal carers and carers based in regional areas.
The Carer Council has been consulted on a range of child protection initiatives, including the Statement of Commitment to family-based carers review and on a draft strategy for the recruitment and retention of family-based carers in South Australia.