As the peak body representing foster carers in Victoria, FCAV advocates for the principles of Aboriginal self-determination including the Aboriginal Children in Aboriginal Care (ACAC) program that ensures Aboriginal children in care remain connected to their culture and communities. As part of our vision to strengthen foster care in Victoria, we provide support and advice to assist foster carers to meet this responsibility. Carers need to be supported and empowered to provide culturally safe care, informed by Authorised Aboriginal Controlled Community Organisations (ACCOs) approach that encompasses expertise in the care of Aboriginal children and the lived and living experience of the communities they serve.
The ‘Aboriginal Children in Aboriginal Care’ (ACAC) program (enabled under Section 18) ensures that authorised ACCOs can work with stakeholders and develop case plans in a culturally safe (and strong) manner for Aboriginal children and young people who are subject to a Children’s Court protection order.
The Aboriginal Child Placement Principle states that Aboriginal children have a right to be raised within their families, communities, and cultures. Due to sustained advocacy by the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA) and others, the ACPP is included in Victorian Law.
All across Victoria, foster carers welcome children and young people into their hearts and homes. For more information on becoming a foster carer contact Fostering Connections 1800 013 088.
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