My mother Lindy started providing foster care in 2001, and I was accredited as a foster carer in 2006.  Since our family first became involved in foster care we have provided care to 25+ children and young people in need of emergency, short, long term and permanent care.  I have worked in the sector since 2006 recruiting, training, assessing and supporting carers.  I now work as the Senior Policy & Project Leader for Home-Based Care at the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare, advocating on behalf of organisations, staff and volunteers within the sector.  I have worked with the FCAV for several years, including as a member of the Carer Information and Support Service Advisory Group; I am thoroughly committed to the vision and mission of the FCAV and look forward to continue contributing in any way that I can.