Over 100 children have been reunited with family members or close relatives instead of staying in residential care through the initiatives of a new program government program. Launched late in 2023 by the Department for Child Protection, Finding Families has already placed children and young people in safe, stable family-based environments across South Australia and beyond.
The program, which is dedicated to sourcing nurturing family placements, utilises a highly-skilled team that seek potential family caregivers who can provide a stable environment for children. From Ceduna to Berri and Roxby Downs in South Australia to distant locations such as Maryborough in Queensland and Wonthaggi in Victoria, the program’s efforts have been broad and far-reaching.
The initiative addresses not only the physical but also the cultural and community bonds essential for child development. In an important collaboration, the program works with the Aboriginal community-controlled organisation Kornar Winmil Yunti (KWY) to manage referrals specifically for Aboriginal children, ensuring more than 30 Aboriginal children have been placed in culturally appropriate homes.
Katrine Hildyard, commenting on the efficacy and emotional impact of the program stated, “All children deserve to feel and be loved and to experience that all-important sense of belonging and connection. It is heartwarming to see so many children reconnecting with their families.”
Hildyard highlighted the program’s role in keeping children connected with their family, culture, and community, calling it an “excellent way to improve those connections.”
The personal testimonies of those involved underline the program’s success. Quentin*, who became the carer of young Nathan* through Finding Families and is supported by Junction’s Foster Care program, shared his experience.
Quentin noted the significant positive change in Nathan, saying, “His school has noticed that he’s changed and improved a lot and is a lot more focused and enthusiastic. He’s talking about things he’d like to do when he leaves school.”
Manager of Finding Families, Michelle Latella, shared sentiments on the fulfilling aspects of her role.
“We get lots of photos of children with family, and texts, saying how children are doing – that’s the greatest reward,” Michelle commented, underscoring the importance of family connections lasting into adulthood.
Craig Rigney, Chief Executive of KWY Aboriginal Corporation, described their involvement in the program as very positive, noting that their work is crucial “to ensure that Aboriginal children and young people are going home to their families.”
Craig also emphasised the significance of Aboriginal family-led decision-making in reducing the overrepresentation of Aboriginal children in out-of-home care.
Building on its first-year achievements, the Finding Families program is set to expand, continuing to offer more children and young people the care and connection that are indispensable for wholesome growth and stability.
*Names changed for privacy.
