The Crisafulli Government is delivering real support for vulnerable children and families across Queensland, with almost $8 million provided to foster and kinship carers to cover the cost of extracurricular activities. This investment is already changing lives — and its impact will be felt strongly in Far North Queensland.
More than 10,000 vulnerable children have benefited from the first round of payments, which cover costs like sport, school tutoring, clubs, on-country programs, and camps. These activities give children the chance to stay active, connected, and supported in their communities — while also delivering much-needed cost of living relief for carers.
For FNQ, this means more children in foster and kinship care will have the same opportunities as their peers: joining a local footy team, learning a musical instrument, or taking part in cultural programs that strengthen identity and belonging. In a region where community ties are so important, this kind of support helps keep kids on the right track and gives carers the backing they need.
This initiative is part of the Crisafulli Government’s broader $383 million Safer Children, Safer Communities plan, which is focused on repairing a child safety system that has been broken for too long. Key reforms include a $70.1 million investment over 3 years to prevent crime by keeping vulnerable kids engaged and supported, a 20% boost to the frontline child protection workforce, and a commitment to move more children from residential care into family-based care.
The payments also reflect a shift in how foster and kinship carers are valued. For too long, these carers have not received the respect and support they deserve, despite playing such a critical role in the child safety system. By helping to cover the costs of extracurricular activities, the government is ensuring carers can focus on giving children stability and belonging without facing additional financial strain.
A second round of payments will be delivered in January 2026, providing further targeted cost of living relief for Queensland families and ensuring vulnerable children continue to access opportunities that will set them up for life.
For FNQ, this investment means stronger communities, safer neighbourhoods, and brighter futures for vulnerable children. Most importantly, it is about recognising and supporting the incredible work of foster and kinship carers, who open their homes and their hearts to those who need it most.
