22 January 2015 | General Interest
In a groundbreaking initiative the ACT Government has appointed five cultural advisors to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care.
The cultural advisors will work directly with children, young people, and families to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children within the child protection system are receiving culturally appropriate care.
Minister for Children and Young People Mick Gentleman first announced the initiative during Child Protection Week in September 2014.
“This service means children and young people in care will be further supported to develop their identity through contact with their culture and communities,” Minister Gentleman said.
“Care and Protection Services are keen to work more closely with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community to ensure the best possible outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people.”
The cultural advice service model will be trialled for 12 months, targeting children and young people when they enter care, and also as they transition from care.
“It is hoped that a successful trial might lead, in the future, to the development of even greater autonomy of Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders through the formation of an independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander welfare association,” Mr Gentleman told The Canberra Times in January.
