Foster carers
David LIMBRICK (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (17:32): (689) My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Carers and Volunteers in the other place. Today we heard a long-overdue apology from the government towards people who are mistreated in state care. We were told the government has learned its lesson and that it vows to value the welfare of all children. However, earlier this week my office was contacted by a foster carer who has provided a loving home for many children over 20 years. She said she could no longer afford to care for more children because she is expected to cover food, clothing, health and other expenses of a child on little more than $30 a day. Surely this is not realistic compensation for such an important service, and surely our foster carers and the kids they care for are worth far more than $30 a day. My request for the minister is to conduct a review into the adequacy of foster carer allowance rates.