Automatic language translation
Our website uses an automatic service to translate our content into different languages. These translations should be used as a guide only. See our Accessibility page for further information.
The out of home care (OOHC) agency that managed the young person's last placement is responsible for providing or arranging support until 25 years of age. When a care leaver reaches out for help it is important to provide whatever assistance you can, even if you did not have direct involvement with their time in care.
It is important you discuss the different forms of after care support that are available and recommend services or make referrals based on their wishes and their needs at that point in time. For example, you can provide help with:
Ensure young people in care and care leavers have a copy of Your Next Step. Explain that Your Next Step:
Let them know Your Next Step (PDF, 5.5 MB) be found on the FACS website. Search Planning for your future and support after care.
Encourage care leavers to visit the Youth Hub website to keep up to date with support available to them, including financial assistance so they know they can still ask for financial help up to age 25.
Every young person leaving care should be encouraged to access TILA funding. Caseworkers must apply on behalf of the young person using the NSW TILA application form (PDF, 574.6 KB) and sending it to Southern Youth and Family Support (SYFS) via tilansw@syfs.org.au or fax 4240 4891. Caseworkers do not need to contact DSS directly, instead all questions and applications must be sent to SYFS.
Certain information held by DCJ or their agency and former foster carers should be given to the young person when their care order expires and include (but are not limited to):
Talk with the carer, because on leaving a placement, young people are allowed to keep any personal effects, clothing, equipment such as wheelchairs or furniture that may have been purchased for them while in care.
In addition to Centrelink and other benefits, those who left statutory care for independence aged 15 or older may be eligible for financial assistance from DCJ. Refer to the Guidelines for the provision of assistance after leaving long term statutory out of home care.
If a care leaver cannot access support from their existing provider, for example they have moved or do not wish to communicate with them, they can seek support from a Specialist Aftercare service, the Care Leavers Line (1800 994 686) or their local DCJ Client Services Centre.
01 Mar 2023