Leaving Care Services in Victoria: A Case Study of a Policy Debate

Young people leaving state care are arguably one of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in society. Compared to most young people they face numerous barriers accessing educational, employment, and other opportunities. Australian studies and reports have drawn the conclusion that a large number of homeless young people came from state care backgrounds. Care leavers continued to be prone to unemployment, homelessness, and social isolation. A 1996 report by the Victorian Auditor General demanded action from the government. The debate among non-government agencies (including the Create Foundation and the Children's Welfare Association of Victoria) and government departments is discussed. The failure of consecutive Victorian Governments to introduce leaving care services arguably reflects a number of complex political and ideological factors.