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Young people in residential care live in houses with MacKillop staff and up to three other young people, creating a homely environment in which young people are supported to heal from past trauma and prepare for their transition into adulthood.

Young people in residential care can have complex needs and are generally aged between 13 and 17. Many have experienced child abuse, neglect, or violence and because of this trauma are some of our most at-risk children and young people.

MacKillop provides residential care across Victoria, New South Wales, and the ACT using a therapeutic approach to help young people recover from trauma. Therapeutic care is focused on healing and recovery from the effects of abuse, neglect and separation from family. It is especially beneficial for children and young people with multiple and complex needs.

MacKillop recognises the critical importance of ensuring our homes reflect the diverse cultural experiences of the children and young people we care for. We are currently implementing a program that draws on the experience and expertise of staff from culturally diverse backgrounds to enhance the cultural appropriateness of our homes. We are also working in partnership with Strong Brother Strong Sister in the Barwon region of Victoria to create mentoring opportunities for Aboriginal children and young people. Both of these programs are funded with the generous support of philanthropic trusts and foundations.

In New South Wales, the traditional residential care model has been replaced with the Intensive Therapeutic Care system reform. Read more here.

All referrals of children and young people into residential care are made through the Department of Health and Human Services in Victoria, the Department of Communities and Justice in New South Wales, and the Community Services Directorate in the ACT.