Thursday, 15 August 2024

Foster carers

Nicole WERNER (Warrandyte) (17:18): (785) My adjournment matter this evening is for the Minister for Children, and the action I seek is for the minister to increase the carers allowance for foster carers for the first time since 2016. Foster carers are the unsung heroes of our society. They open their homes and hearts to some of the most vulnerable children in Victoria. They provide not only a safe place to live but also love, stability and hope for a brighter future. Their contributions are immeasurable, yet the support they receive from our government does not reflect the value of their work. They are volunteers who juggle their own careers, families and interests to provide life-changing care, attention and guidance 24/7 to 12,000 of the most vulnerable children in our society.

For years now foster carers have been facing an untenable situation. The allowance they receive has remained unchanged since 2016. In the intervening years the cost of living has surged, and the financial strain that foster carers face has become increasingly severe. Despite this, Victoria has the lowest care allowance rate for foster, kinship and permanent care in Australia. The inadequacy of this allowance was highlighted in a KPMG report which called for a 67 per cent increase to the base care rate. Despite the clear recommendations and the pressing need for action, the government have kept this report cabinet in confidence because they know how bad the situation is.

On this side of the house we recognise the essential role that foster carers play in our society and are committed to advocating on their behalf, and we will keep fighting until they are fairly compensated for the work that they do. In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all foster carers. Your dedication and sacrifice are inspiring, and we will continue to fight for you.