An October 2016 Child Family Community Australia (CFCA) paper Supporting young people leaving out of home care considers how best to support young people transitioning from out-of-home care. The report shows the legislative and policy context governing transition in each Australian state and territory. Most offer discretionary post-care support up to 25 years of age. Currently Victoria and Queensland only offer discretionary services to 21 years of age, but recent amendments to Queensland’s legislation mean support will be available to 25 years. The paper explores the growing body of evidence advocating the benefits of stabilising transition and meeting the individual needs of each young person transitioning, such as allowing young people to transition based on their developmental, social and emotional needs rather than chronological age. Recommendations highlight the need to improve housing affordability and allow access to flexible and ongoing accommodation support. Practice resources are available to guide planning, including this one from the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services, and this one from the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.
