Ms Catherine Bond:

As we said earlier, we absolutely know the number one reason for somebody to think about becoming a foster carer is definitely talking to another foster carer and hearing of their experiences. If somebody is hearing of negative experiences, it is not going to be quite as attractive.

There is always a need for foster carers because children are always coming into care. There is an acute shortage of foster carers at present. Foster carers who are retiring are not being replenished at the back end, as it were. As Senator Warfield said, foster care is in an unique position. Foster carers play a fantastic role in what they offer our society.