Transition from care (TFC)
What is TFC?
TFC is planning for the time when you will no longer be in care.
How does it happen?
- around the time you turn 15, your child safety officer (CSO) will start talking to you about planning for your future and what you are going to do when your child protection order ends
- as part of your case plan, you and your CSO will develop a TFC plan that looks at your goals and how you and your CSO will make sure you achieve these goals.
What things might the department help me with?
Depending on the transition from care goals in your case plan, the department may help you with:
- accessing financial or study assistance
- maintaining bank accounts
- payment for a course of study/ apprenticeship/traineeship
- obtaining a drivers licence
- developing life skills and attending courses such as life skills workshops, cooking or budgeting
- living in semi-supported accommodation or living independently
- accessing counselling and support services
- transport to visit/reconnect with your family
- accessing creative musical/ artistic/sporting activities that support your personal and cultural development and social networks.
Is there a limit to how much I can get?
Yes, there is a limit to the amount of money the department can use to help you with your transition from care, so it's important to work out what is most important for you in meeting your goals.
Is my TFC plan reviewed?
- yes, it is reviewed as part of your case plan every six months
- your plan may change or be added to, as your goals or things in your life may change.
How can I be involved?
- work out your priorities when it comes to what you need support with and work with your CSO on these
- things you might need to think about include:
- where you are going to live?
- do you want to study or go to work?
- how will you get money and look after your money?
- what supports will you need to achieve your goals?
- go along to the meetings where your TFC plan is being reviewed
- to find out more about TFC you can talk to your:
- CSO
- youth worker
- carer.
- ask your CSO for a copy of the book called 'Where to from here? A guide to community services for young people making the transition to living independently' - it has helpful information in it about services and benefits, finding a job, finding a place to live, education and training, and access to health, counselling, support and legal services
- visit the Create your future website - a guide for young people leaving care
- talk to community agencies
- talk to your community visitor
- look into Transition to Independent Living Allowance (TILA) funding from the Australian Government, by calling 1300 653 227 and talking to your CSO.
- Last updated
- 15 January 2009

