Page 467 - Week 02 - Tuesday, 21 February 2012
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In contrast to the government bills, Ms Hunter’s bill proposes to keep this section and amend it to refer to “a transition plan” for young people in out-of-home care. We believe that this amendment is not necessary.
The government bill creates a new part in the act, part 15.5. The government recognises that young people transition from out-of-home care to a variety of environments. A focus on where a person transitions to is desirably reflected in legislation; for this reason, the new part in the government’s bill is entitled “Transition to adulthood”.
Clause 8, proposed section 529A, defines a new object for part 15.5, that the language used should emphasise an empowering and self-determining approach for young people and young adults. As outlined in the government’s bill, the object of transition planning is to “promote, strengthen and foster” the wellbeing of young people transitioning from out-of-home care.
As I have already stated, the government is delivering post-care supports to young adults up to the age of 25 through the government-funded transition from out-of-home care program. The government’s bill is consistent with this practice; in clause 8, proposed section 529B defines a young adult as someone up to the age of 25, noting that the national framework recognises this vulnerable group of young people being up to the age of 25 years.
In defining transition plans it is important to be consistent in the language used. In section 529C(1)(a) of the government’s bill we maintain the language of “transition” by stating that a transition plan is for a young person or young adult “preparing to begin the transition from out-of-home care”.
Regarding the transition plan process, the government bill, in clause 8, proposed new sections 529E through to 529H, provides the legislative framework that outlines the director-general’s responsibilities and services and supports for young people transitioning from out-of-home care. This framework sets the parameters while enabling a flexible and responsive approach to meet the needs and wishes of each individual young person.
The transition plan process should promote that the young person leads the planning, recognising that they are approaching adulthood and seeking independence. The transition plan is the young person’s, not the director-general’s. This process should not be prescribed to such an extent that it would require processes to be followed which are not appropriate to the individual needs and circumstances of each young person.
Transition planning is in place in the Office for Children, Youth and Family Support. From 1 July last year to date, 21 young people transitioned from out-of-home care; transition plans are in place for all young people except two who did not wish to have a transition plan.
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