Children and young people living in foster, kinship or residential care are some of the most vulnerable children and young people in Queensland. When children and young people are not able to live safely with their parents it is the responsibility of Child Safety to ensure they have appropriate care arrangements.
On average, over $400,000 is spent annually per child living in residential care - much higher than the average cost per child living in family-based care which is just over $30,000 annually. This insights paper outlines the current carer allowance rates across Australia and the increase in cost-of-living expenses for Queensland families to consider whether Queensland carer allowances can meet the needs of the children and young people they care for.