The New South Wales (NSW) government has introduced extensive reforms to its out-of-home care system, described as the most significant changes in decades. These reforms are designed to improve the welfare of thousands of vulnerable children in the state and will see the government taking a more proactive role in the sector, particularly in the recruitment of foster carers. The reform initiative addresses long-standing concerns within the community about the state's capacity to provide stable and supportive environments for children in need.

Advocate Renee Leigh has voiced strong support for these changes, emphasizing that they are overdue and necessary for both attracting and retaining foster carers. The current foster care system has been criticized for its instability, with many children experiencing multiple placements and a lack of continuity in their lives. Personal accounts, like that of Teresa, highlight the challenges faced by youths in the foster care system, illustrating how some have been shuffled between various homes and facilities, leading to feelings of insecurity and instability.

The NSW government's reform efforts are met with cautious optimism, as many hope these changes will significantly improve the experiences of children in foster care and provide them with a better chance at a stable upbringing. By taking a more active role, the government aims to ensure that vulnerable children have access to safe and nurturing environments, thus enabling them to thrive despite their challenging backgrounds.