A new Carer Reference Group is giving foster and kinship carers a direct voice in shaping improvements to the child protection system.
The group brings together carers, sector representatives and the Department of Children and Families to improve communication, support, and outcomes for children.
Practical improvements are already underway, building on Territory-wide engagement with carers in 2025.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is working in partnership with foster and kinship carers to strengthen the child protection system, with a new Carer Reference Group (CRG) putting their experiences front and centre.
Co-chaired by the Foster and Kinship Carer Association of the Northern Territory (FKCANT) and the Department of Children and Families, the CRG builds on a 2025 Territory-wide engagement process that included workshops, surveys, and community conversations with carers about what's working, what needs to improve, and where practical change can be made.
Minister for Child Protection Robyn Cahill OAM said, "foster and kinship carers play a critical role in keeping Territory children safe, connected and supported, and we need to make sure they feel heard and valued."
"The Carer Reference Group is about working in genuine partnership with carers to strengthen communication and improve the support they receive - because that leads to better outcomes for children."
FKCANT CEO Amanda Thompson said the response from carers had been encouraging.
"We've heard directly from carers across the Territory about what's working and what needs to improve, and this group is about working together on those priorities."
A Carer Reference Group member said the opportunity to be part of the process was meaningful.
"It's exciting to have the opportunity to share what happens day-to-day as a carer and know that people are listening. This is about making things better for carers now and into the future, and for the children we care for."
People interested in becoming a foster or kinship carer can visit www.here or call 1800 FOSTER (1800 367 837).
