A refreshed sector commitment is being launched to ensure foster and kinship carers are valued and supported in the vital contributions they make to the lives of children and young people.

The Statement of Commitment to foster and kinship carers affirms the critical role carers play in the child protection and family sypport system. It reflects a partnership between the Department for Child Protection (DCP) and peak bodies, Connecting Foster & Kinship Carers SA and Child and Family Focus SA (CAFFSA).

DCP extensively sought feedback from carers, staff, and community organisations to update the Statement of Commitment.

The updated Statement guides DCP’s work and relationship with carers and commits to five key principles to inform, support, consult, value and respect carers. It also outlines key stakeholders’ roles and responsibilities in working with family-based carers.

A new element to support Aboriginal carers has been added including the introduction of an Aboriginal Kinship Care Support Program as a key part of the family-based carer network. This will support carers of Aboriginal children and provide quality information that supports carers in providing safe, stable, and culturally safe care.

The refreshed Statement also acknowledges the valuable knowledge that carers hold about the child in their care and it better reflects the diversity of carers who are opening their hearts and homes to children and young people.

These changes were informed by feedback from more than 200 carers and staff, including the Carer Council, CAFFSA and the Martinthi Kinship Care Program.

Under the Children and Young People (Safety and Support) Bill 2024—introduced to Parliament this month—the Statement would be embedded in legislation, strengthening carers’ participation in significant decisions relating to the children in their care.

The refreshed Statement of Commitment builds on the department’s recent efforts to improve supports for carers, including a new $800-a-year flexible respite payment to eligible carers, the Carers Council to elevate carer voices, and a Carers Voice engagement section of the department’s website.

The updated Statement of Commitment can be viewed online.

Quotes attributable to DCP Chief Executive Jackie Bray

This Statement is a joint promise by our department and partner agencies to work alongside our carers to ensure they receive the support they need.

The updated elements reflect feedback from carers and significant work has gone into ensuring our foster and kinship carers feel valued and heard.

Our department understands the importance of working with carers and staff to embed this vision into everyday practice.