More needs to be done in a national push to support youth in foster care to the age of 21, a leading advocate says.
NSW has joined other states in extending foster support by three years if they decide to leave home, or their carers will continue to be paid an allowance if they stay.
Paul McDonald, who chairs advocacy coalition The Home Stretch, will on Thursday meet with government representatives to celebrate the country’s most significant modern reform of the foster care system.
“Supports for young people differ between states and they continue to have problems accessing housing,” he said.
“It’s time for the Australian government to step up and help with this.”
Prior to the reforms, support for children in foster care was cut off at 18 and Home Stretch says this group makes up two-thirds of homeless youth.
Citing reports by Deloitte and the Create Foundation, the advocacy says in the first year around half experienced unemployment, mental health issues, were unable to continue their education and found themselves in the justice system.
Caroline Fletcher was in her first week of year 12 when she left the care system, and was forced to work three jobs and live in her car while she finished school.
“I had to pack up my stuff and I found myself abruptly out on my own, it was a very turbulent time,” she said.
“I think anyone who survives that is a success story.”
Economists project extending foster care to 21 will save $2.4 billion over 10 years, Home Stretch said.
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