NSW Unveils Sweeping Foster Care Reform
The NSW Labor government has announced significant changes to the state's out-of-home care system.
This morning, the Minns government revealed plans to implement stricter accountability measures for non-government providers responsible for caring for more than 13,000 vulnerable children.
Additionally, the government will lead efforts to recruit foster carers and reduce the outsourcing of child protection services.
The Minister for Families and Communities, Kate Washington, stated:
"Despite significant and rising taxpayer investment, rates of restoration, ship and adoption continue to fall. It’s clear the current program has failed to deliver, that’s why we are undertaking significant reform.
Accountability is non-negotiable when it comes to children’s safety and public trust. We are building a new foster care system where kids come first – every child deserves to grow up with love, safety and stability."
National Security Committee to Meet Amid US and Israel Strikes on Iran
Good morning. Welcome to our live news blog this Sunday.
The federal government is acting swiftly in response to recent developments in the Middle East.
Last night, the United States and Israel conducted strikes aimed at preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and mitigating threats to international peace and security.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a statement saying:
"Australia stands with the brave people of Iran in their struggle against oppression."
He described Iran’s ruling regime as a "destabilising force" for decades due to its ballistic missile and nuclear programs, support for armed proxies, and "brutal acts of violence and intimidation."
The national security committee of cabinet is scheduled to meet at approximately 8:30 a.m. this morning. Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong will address the media from Adelaide around 9:45 a.m.
The government has condemned the Iranian regime’s harsh crackdown on protesters, which has resulted in thousands of civilian deaths in Iran, and has highlighted Iranian-led attacks on Australian soil.
In 2024, Iran directed at least two attacks in Australia targeting the Jewish community. In response, Australia expelled Iran’s ambassador last year.
