Transition to the new Family Based Care Services Investment Specification
This transition to the new service types under the Family Based Care Services Investment Specification is a priority for our department. When completed, it will ensure a better care system for children and young people and improve the way we provide support to foster and kinship carers.
These new service types will create greater flexibility in how services are delivered, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations and Indigenous Businesses and help to improve carer recruitment rates and support options.
The transition to the new service types will be adaptable to local needs and conditions and will occur over 3 phases beginning in 2025, noting that market testing and early adopter services have already commenced in some locations.
The transition to new service types will be take place in 3 phases, over 3 years. Phase 1, the statewide Expression of Interest (EOI), has closed. From 1 July 2025, Phase 2 activities will commence with new and existing service providers to realign service delivery with the new Family Based Care service types, and the Department will focus on increasing investment and coverage to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations and Indigenous Businesses.
Why are the changes necessary?
We have listened to repeated calls from our foster and kinship carers for more flexible financial and practical supports for carer households.
A project between our department and Community Services Industry Alliance identified the new service types that would best support foster and kinship carers, in partnership with the sector.
Transitioning to new service types aims to:
- improve carer recruitment and retention rates
- create greater flexibility in how services are delivered to match the needs of children and young people and their carers
- address issues with existing service models through having new funding rates, which include a base rate plus a brokerage amount.
We will keep carers and agencies informed through the release of regular updates through the department’s website, within the QFKC newsletter and their website, and via the Carer Connect App notice board.
Where can I go for more information?
- For Carers - Support agency or QFKC
- For Service Providers - Peakcare
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