We are always better together than we are apart
The Children in Care Collective is an interagency think-tank with a national footprint formed in 2016 to share experience, discuss best practice, learn from researchers, policy experts and practitioners in out-of-home care and advocate for change.
Members of the Collective are out-of-home care service providers, academic centres and academic experts in the areas of child abuse and neglect, child protection, out-of-home care, and children’s rights and best interests. Together they provide a unique combination of practitioner and academic wisdom and experience.
The Collective uses evidence-based practice, practitioner knowledge, research and the expert knowledge of children and young people themselves to address difficult systemic issues for children and young people with complex needs living in out-of-home care.
Latest News and Announcements
The Children in Care Collective is winding up
The Children in Care Collective, established in 2017 as an interagency think-tank, is winding up after eight years of advocacy and collaboration. Bringing together service providers and academics, the Collective has worked to strengthen the out-of-home care system through forums, research, submissions, and resources.
Its work has influenced practice, supported carers, and created a valued space for collaboration across the sector. The Collective thanks all who contributed to its vision of improving outcomes for children and young people in care. The website will remain active until April 2026.
New Resource: Understanding Out-of-Home Care A Guide for Health Professionals
The Children in Care Collective has released a new resource to support health professionals working with children and young people living in out-of-home care (OOHC).
Understanding Out-of-Home Care: A Guide for Health Professionals provides a clear overview of the OOHC system across Australia, outlining who can authorise medical treatment, relevant legal responsibilities, and the unique challenges faced by children and young people in care.
Acknowledgement
The Children in Care Collective acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this country, and honours their connection to land, water and community. We pay our respect to them, their cultures and customs, and to Elders past, present and emerging.
The Collective
is made up of the following dedicated organisations
Each logo is linked to the home site of that organisation. Please follow the link to find out more about a particular organisation.
