The Introduction of Extended Out-of-Home Care (OOHC) Until 21 Years in Australia: A Mapping of Policy, Legislation and Programs in Each Jurisdiction

It is increasingly recognised by global research that extending out-of-home care (OOHC) until at least 21 years of age is the policy reform most likely to advance improved outcomes for care leavers. In recent years, all eight Australian jurisdictions (States and Territories) have introduced forms of extended care programs. Yet, major variations remain between these jurisdictions in terms of the placement types covered, the levels of support and funding, and the terms and language used to describe their programs. This paper maps the existing policy developments in each jurisdiction and the level of program supports provided to care leavers aged 18–21 years. For each jurisdiction, we establish extended care eligibility and coverage, funding and adequacy, and the key terminology used. Our discussion of the commonalities and differences between the jurisdictions suggests that some sub-groups of care leavers may need additional and specialised forms of support. They include most notably those exiting residential care and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander care leavers.