‘Who can say OK?’ provides information about decision making for children and young people in family-based care. The documents outline the types of decisions that require DCP approval and the types of decisions that carers can make on their own.

‘Who can say OK?’ has been updated following extensive consultation with family-based carers to make the documents as current as possible.

Key changes made to ‘Who can say OK?’ based on the feedback received include:

• prompts throughout the documents to highlight the importance of the Statement of Commitment principles when DCP is making decisions in partnership with carers
• reference to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Placement Principles as a key consideration when making decisions involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people
• new content regarding NDIS planning and the need to actively involve carers throughout the NDIS process
• new content about the involvement carers may have in Youth Court proceedings
• new content about medical decision making for children and young people in care, including decisions about administering medications, sharing medical reports and making medical appointments
• new content about decision making when supporting a young person to transition from care
• new content about the roles and responsibilities of carers and DCP when navigating a child or young person’s suspension or exclusion from school
• new content regarding decision making for children and young people that are missing or absent from their placement.

The updated ‘Who can say OK?’ emphasises the need for decisions to be made in partnership with carers to achieve best outcomes for the children and young people in their care. The unique insights and knowledge held by carers is vital in making informed, responsive decisions on behalf of a child or young person.

DCP is incredibly grateful to the carers who generously provided feedback about ‘Who can say OK?’ and shared their experience of making decisions for the children and young people in their care.

The updated ‘Who can say OK?’ document and ‘Who can say OK? quick guide are available on the DCP website.