Jesse Bell-Myers’ experience of foster care shows what can be achieved when children are supported early and consistently, but his story also highlights that not every child in care receives the same chance, and why greater support for carers matters more than ever.

Placed into foster care as an infant, Jesse Bell-Myers grew up safe and supported thanks to a dedicated foster family who gave him stability and opportunity. Today, as a 22-year-old, his story shows the life changing impact foster care can have, and the urgent need to better support the system so more children can thrive.

Families Australia Chief Executive Officer Jamie Crosby said lived experience stories like Jesse’s highlight the opportunity to strengthen foster care through targeted national action.

“Foster carers provide stability, safety and care at critical moments in children’s lives,” Mr Crosby said.

“There is more we can do, particularly at a national level, to ease pressure on carers and improve outcomes for children in care.”

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

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

“Caring for Australia’s children is a shared responsibility. We must act now to prioritise access to healthcare, reduce financial stress for carers, and improve support across the board,” Mr Crosby said.

Across Australia, foster carers are doing more than ever to support children with complex needs, often navigating fragmented services, long waitlists and rising cost-of-living. While carers remain deeply committed, many say the level of support has not kept pace with what is being asked of them.

Kelly Jebb, a foster carer, 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,” Ms Jebb said.

“With the right support earlier, outcomes for children, and carers, can be so much better.”

Mr Crosby said the National Foster Care Sustainability Group is focused on practical reforms that would make an immediate difference.

“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,” he said.

“Doing more upfront is not only the right thing for children, it strengthens the entire system.”

The campaign is calling on the Commonwealth Government to prioritise: