The FCAV sometimes receives inquiries from people who have been in care and are now seeking their records, family members, foster carers and personal history. If you have had a care experience, or are supporting someone in this situation, the contacts below may be of assistance.
Department of Families, Fairness and Housing
Accessing wardship and care leaver records
Former wards can request access to their personal records through the Care Leaver Records Service (CLRS). These records may include information about time spent in care, placements, and family connections.
To apply:
· Complete the Application Form: Care Leaver Records Request Application Form
· Submit the Form: clrs@dffh.vic.gov.au or post to:
Care Leaver Records Service
Department of Families, Fairness and Housing
GPO Box 1774
Melbourne VIC 3001
For more details, visit the DFFH's Freedom of Information page: Making a Freedom of Information Request for information such as:
· Case notes
· Placement details
· Birth family information
· Correspondence
VANISH (Victorian Adoption Network for Information and Self Help)
VANISH is a specialised service that helps people separated from family through adoption, state wardship, and out-of-home care. They offer:
· Search assistance for family of origin
· Counselling and emotional support
· Group peer support for former state wards
· Access to historical records and advice on applications
· You can book a one-on-one consultation with VANISH for tailored support.
CREATE Victoria
Wurundjeri Land
CREATE Foundation is the national consumer body representing the voices of children and young people with an out-of-home care experience.
325-327 Queensberry Street,
North Melbourne VIC 3051
Phone: (03) 9918 0002 Email: victoria@create.org.au
Find & Connect Support Service
www.findandconnect.gov.au
This service offers practical help to locate personal records and connect with support. It’s designed specifically for Forgotten Australians and former wards of the state. Services include:
· Assistance navigating care records
· Information about past institutions
· Referrals to counselling and support
Link-Up Victoria
www.linkupvictoria.org.au
For Aboriginal former wards of the state, Link-Up Victoria provides specialised support for family tracing, cultural connection, and reunions. They offer:
· Research services
· Travel assistance for reunions
· Emotional and cultural support
Care Leavers Association Network (CLAN)
www.clan.org.au
CLAN is a support and advocacy services for people who grew up in Australian orphanages, children’s homes, foster care and other institutions. CLAN is based in NSW however offers services to people in Victoria.
463 Chapel Road
Bankstown, NSW 2200
Tel: 1800 008 774
Open Place
www.openplace.org.au
Open Place provides support and advocacy for people who identify as Forgotten Australians.
Suite 1/8 Bromham Place
Richmond VIC 3121
Tel: 1800 161 109
