Jesse’s story shows why children in foster care deserve a fair go

Jesse Bell-Myers’ experience of foster care shows what can be achieved when children are supported early and consistently. It also highlights why more needs to be done to make sure every child in care has the same opportunity to feel safe, supported and able to thrive.

Placed into foster care as an infant, Jesse grew up with a dedicated foster family who gave him stability and opportunity. Now 22, his story demonstrates the life-changing impact foster care can have when children receive the support they need.

For Families Australia Chief Executive Officer Jamie Crosby, stories like Jesse’s show both what is possible and where there is more work to do.

“Foster carers provide stability, safety and care at critical moments in children’s lives. There is more we can do, particularly at a national level, to ease pressure on carers and improve outcomes for children in care,” Mr Crosby said.

A system under pressure

The latest Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data shows that the number of children entering care remains steady, while the number of new and active foster carers has declined by 21 per cent since 2017.

“Without action, this decline will continue, leaving too many vulnerable children without access to stable, home-based care,” Mr Crosby said.

Across Australia, foster carers are supporting children with increasingly complex needs, often while navigating fragmented services, long waitlists and rising costs. While carers remain deeply committed to the children in their care, many say the level of support available has not kept pace with what is being asked of them.

Foster carer Kelly Jebb said Jesse’s story reflects the difference timely, practical support can make in a child’s life.

“Every child deserves the chance to thrive. Carers do everything they can, but too often we’re working around delays in healthcare, therapy and education support. With the right support earlier, outcomes for children, and carers, can be so much better,” Ms Jebb said.

Practical changes could make a difference

Jesse’s story shows what can happen when children receive the stability and support they need. The challenge now is making sure that opportunity is available to more children in care. That's why the National Foster Care Sustainability Group is calling for practical reforms that would ease pressure on carers and improve outcomes for children.

“When children can access healthcare and therapeutic support quickly, when carers are not facing unnecessary financial pressure, and when workplaces recognise the parenting-type role carers play, placements are more stable and children do better. Doing more upfront is not only the right thing for children, it strengthens the entire system,” Mr Crosby said.

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