I have 14+ years of experience as a foster carer. I currently provide care to an Aboriginal sibling group of four children/young people. In addition to this practical experience, I have an extensive research background in the area of out-of-home care (OOHC).
My doctoral thesis (2013) investigated the experiences of long-term female foster carers. One recent project investigated permanency options for children in OOHC, the results of which are being launched at the Australian Parliament House in November with a call to reform adoption legislation. Other projects include an investigation of infant feeding in OOHC, oral health of children in OOHC, how children of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds maintain culture and identity in OOHC, and foster carers experiences of caring for a child in OOHC who is diagnosed with a terminal illness.
In addition to my research, I also develop and provide training. In particular, I train foster carers caring for infants and children who were born substance exposed. I also provide training to school teachers in relation to managing a child in the classroom who has a trauma history. I have a Graduate Certificate in Teaching and in Developmental Trauma. I am currently halfway through a Master of Business Administration (MBA) due for completion in June 2021.