Ms Catherine Bond:

That would be the case for some foster carers. Our national support helpline took over 900 calls last year from foster carers, who were generally seeking help. As I would always say, people do not generally ring our helpline to say things are fantastic and life is great. They call when they are experiencing a difficulty or require assistance and supports. That is the objective of our helpline. We have part-time national advocates who can meet with foster parents, as well as national support volunteer advocates. Prevention is always the best cure. If the supports are there, foster carers are feeling held and supported and they have the necessary tools to do the job they are tasked to do, that is a good news story for foster care.