Young Canberrans leaving statutory out-of-home care may access support until they turn 21, under new legislation passed this week.

Discretionary support will be available up to the age of 25 when it is required, creating an additional safety net for those young people who need it.

The reform is part of the Children and Young People Amendment Bill 2024 (No. 2), which also establishes an external merits review process for child protection decisions in the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal, starting on 1 July 2025, and a framework for Charters for young people, parents, families, and carers involved in the child protection system.

The Bill represents the second tranche of reform to the Children and Young People Act under Next Steps for Our Kids – the ACT Strategy for strengthening families and keeping children and young people safe (2022), Rachel Stephen-Smith, ACT Minister for Children, Youth and Family Services, said.

The ACT Budget provides $10 million for a new model of support for young adults transitioning to adulthood from the out-of-home care system.

Ms Stephen-Smith said the transition to adulthood could be a difficult time for any young person, but was particularly challenging for those in out-of-home care.

“The ACT was one of the first jurisdictions to establish formal financial support for young people up to the age of 21 and their carers, as well as after-care supports up to the age of 25…

“This legislation, supported by Budget funding, creates a right for young adults to access more comprehensive support – giving them the best opportunity to continue their education, gain employment, and establish stable housing and living arrangements.

“Many children and young people in out-of-home care have experienced significant trauma in their lives. The impact of this does not disappear as soon as a young person reaches adulthood, and many young people experience ongoing mental health challenges and difficulties adjusting to independent living.

“This change will provide young people with confidence that they will continue to be supported during their early adult years, just like other young people who continue to receive support from their families through this crucial period.”

For more information about the ACT Government’s reform of child, youth and family services, visit https://yoursayconversations.act.gov.au/children-and-family-services-reform.