Oral | Empowering Futures – Professional Foster Care as a Transformative Alternative to Residential Care
Tracks
| Thursday, June 12, 2025 |
| 11:20 AM - 11:40 AM |
| P5 |
Synopsis
OzChild’s Professional Care Model (PCM) reimagines foster care for 2025 and beyond. Grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed practices, PCM empowers accredited carers as professionals to provide stable, nurturing homes. It supports children with complex needs through specialised training, coaching, and a strong focus on family restoration. As a scalable, cost-effective alternative to residential care, PCM delivers better outcomes for children and offers a sustainable, transformative solution for the sector.
Speaker
Mrs Michelle Van Doorn
Executive Director Services & Practice
OzChild
Empowering Futures: Professional Foster Care as a Transformative Alternative to Residential Care
Biography
Michelle is a dedicated Executive leader with a long career working across government and non government and a passion for improving the lives of children and families. At OzChild, Michelle leads services across Victoria, NSW, ACT, and Queensland, alongside the the Practice Development and Implementation portfolio. Michelle is driven by a strong advocacy for children's rights and well-being, aiming to create meaningful, lasting change.
Mrs Kylie Williams
Director of Practice Development & Implementation
OzChild
Empowering Futures – Professional Foster Care as a Transformative Alternative to Residential Care
Biography
Kylie is a psychologist with over 25 years of experience in the sector. She leads OzChild’s Practice, Development, and Implementation team, focusing on practice governance and effective program implementation. Kylie is passionate in building capability through coaching and training, fostering a learning culture, and utilisation of evidence-based approaches and practices.
