From November 2018, the new Family Participation Program (FPP) will commence throughout Queensland replacing the Recognised Entity program. The FPP will support the primary principle that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have the right to self-determination and the right to quality services based on the implementation of the five (5) elements of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Placement Principle.
It is important to recognise that this service is a resource for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and will work independently of the Department of Child Safety.
The primary focus of the program is on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families with children and young people under the age of 18 years, including those who are at risk of being subject of a child protection notification or who are already subject to intervention by the statutory child protection system.
The FPP will work together with parents, families and children to independently facilitate an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Family Led Decision Making (ATSIFLDM) process. ATSIFLDM is a process that gives authority to parents, families and children to work together to solve problems and lead decision making in a culturally safe space. This approach provides an opportunity to keep children safe in a way that optimises families’ participation and confidence in the process, while meeting any statutory requirements.
It is critical that this program supports the voice of our children and families in case planning and decision making to meet the identified needs and work collaboratively with partners involved in the family-led decision making process.
Keep an eye on our website for any further information as well as the contact details for the FPP service within your area.
