Foster and Kinship Care Inquiry

In reply to the Hon. S.L. GAME ().15 November 2023).

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries): The Minister for Child Protection has advised:

Foster and kinship carers play an integral role in the child protection and family support system. They open their hearts, homes and lives to children and young people so they are able to grow in a safe, supported and loving environment.

On 17 November 2021, the Hon. John Darley MLC introduced the Children and Young People (Safety) (Inquiry into Foster and Kinship Care) Amendment Bill 2021 in the Legislative Council. After passing both houses, the bill received royal assent from Her Excellency the Governor in Executive Council on 9 December 2021.

The Independent Inquiry into Foster and Kinship Care was conducted by Dr Fiona Arney following the 2021 amendments to the Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017. The inquiry's scope, structure and resourcing was determined by the former government. The inquiry received 206 submissions, including 149 from foster and kinship carers, 17 organisations, three research groups and two practitioners.

On release of the report of the inquiry, the Minister for Child Protection held a number of forums and round tables with carers to consult on the inquiry's findings and the government's response.

Forums and round tables with carers were also convened prior to the inquiry and are continuing to be convened across the state with deep insight being provided by many generous carers both in relation to the inquiry and a range of other matters.

The establishment of the Carer Council was a recommendation of the inquiry and many carers expressed support for its establishment.

The government thanks peak body Connecting Foster and Kinship Carers SA for their ongoing representation and advocacy for carers and its work to support the Carer Council.

The 2023-24 state budget included increases to carer payments for foster and kinship carers comprising a 4.8 per cent increase in indexation for all family-based carers and a $50 per fortnight increase per child 16 years and under for general foster and kinship carers.

After extensive consultation, eligible carers now receive an additional $800 each year for respite-like supports, decided by the carer. These payments are quarterly and began on 25 January 2024.

There will be consultation on legislation.