The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to better outcomes for children who are unable to live at home by investing $1.2 million over three years to encourage and support young people living in Out of Home Care (OOHC) to continue with learning.
Outcomes for children and young people in Out of Home Care should be the same as for any child in the community - they have the right to the same expectations and hopes for their lives and future.
Following consultation with a range of key stakeholders, the incentive program will encourage young people in Out of Home Care to stay engaged in education beyond year 10, because when Tasmanians stay in education and training longer they get better qualifications and have the best chance at getting a job and having a brighter future.
By recognising the challenges faced by some of these young people and acknowledging that engagement in ongoing learning is critical for their future, incentive payments of $2500 will be provided to young people and carers of young people who complete Year 12 or its equivalent.
This policy supports our target to ensure the retention rate of students from Year 10 – 12 is at or above the national average by 2022, and will help close the gap for children, young people and their families to give them the positive future they deserve.
Today’s announcement builds on our reforms of OOHC system, and aligns with our election commitment to better support and engage with young people in care with a focus on education to ensure all Tasmanian students are able to reach their full potential.
By investing in the education of Tasmanian students we are creating a job ready generation equipped with the skills they need to succeed and contribute to the success of our growing State.
See all of our targets at: https://www.tas.liberal.org.au/sites/default/files/BuildingYourFuture.pdf