Feedback invited on draft recommendations for out-of-home care.
Carers of children and young people, workers and providers in the out-of-home care sector, and people with experience or connection to the sector have been invited to provide feedback on a draft report into its costs and pricing.
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal has released the Draft Report as part of its review of the cost of delivering out-of-home care and the pricing arrangements with non-government providers who deliver care under contract with the NSW Government.
Tribunal Chair Carmel Donnelly said the review had benefited from significant input from stakeholders, including Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and the carers of children and young people.
“Carers, workers and providers connected to the out-of-home care sector have been central to the preparation of our Draft Report and we are grateful to everyone who has taken time to contribute to this review so far,” Ms Donnelly said.
“We encourage people to review these draft recommendations and let us know whether they feel the report reflects their experiences, or if they suggest we consider other points of view or information before we prepare the Final Report.”
The Draft Report proposes:
- a simplified approach to pricing outsourced care based on more accurate costings
- increased financial support for foster, relative and kinship carers who are vitally important to the success and sustainability of the system
- increased accountability across the system for essential medical care and connection with families, and improved visibility over key service areas.
“People can review the Draft Report and make a written submission on the IPART website. We are inviting submissions until 17 April 2025,” Ms Donnelly said.
“We will also hold workshops with interested stakeholders over coming weeks to seek feedback. Details about how to register for workshops will be communicated soon.”
IPART will submit a Final Report to the Premier and the Minister for Families and Communities and Disability Inclusion in May 2025.
Media Contact: Mark O’Brien, 0427 105 865, media@ipart.nsw.gov.au.