Program 2008 Conference About Us
Program Introduction | Dhum Djirri Aboriginal Family Decision Making Program | Koorie Cultural Placement and Support Program | Link Up Victoria | Permanent Care Program | Lakidjeka ACSASS’ | Residential Care Program | Extended Care | Leaving Care Program | Kurnai Youth Homelessness Service.

KOORIE CULTURAL PLACEMENT AND SUPPORT PROGRAM

The Koorie Cultural Placement and Support Program addresses the cultural needs of Aboriginal children who are placed in mainstream out of home care services. It was found that these children would often be culturally isolated. The focus is to ensure the children remain connected to their families and community and to explore the possibility of placements within the extended family and the wider Indigenous community. The Program ensures that Aboriginal children are connected to their culture and community.

 

To date the program only operates in the Northern and Western metropolitan regions, but it is hoped that funding will be secured to cover all areas in Victoria.

Program Aims:

  • To ensure that Aboriginal children in mainstream care remain connected to their families and community
  • To assist these children to know about, and take pride in, their cultural heritage
  • To ensure that the children’s Cultural Plans are developed and utilised
  • Where possible, to explore alternative placement options for Aboriginal children in out of home care, with a focus on placing them within their community or in kinship care

Our Staff Will:

  • Formulate assessments of cultural needs in relation to Aboriginal children in out of home care and in line with the Aboriginal Child Placement Principle
  • Seek out extended family members and members of the Aboriginal community who may be able to provide care or a family connection for the children
  • Inform children about their family and culture and help them to feel proud of their Aboriginality
  • Link children to Aboriginal services and community activities
  • Facilitate and support access with the children’s family, in particular, siblings and extended family members
  • Educate carers in Aboriginal history, culture and issues affecting Indigenous people today

 

In this way we try to ensure that Aboriginal children learn about their cultural heritage and establish and maintain meaningful contact with their family and the wider Aboriginal community.