Extending out-of-home care in the state of Victoria, Australia: The policy context and outcomes

In November 2020, the State (Labour Party) Government of Victoria in Australia announced that it would extend out-of-home care (OOHC) on a universal basis until 21 years of age starting 1 January 2021. This is an outstanding policy innovation introduced in response to the Home Stretch campaign, led by Anglicare Victoria, to urge all Australian jurisdictions to offer extended care programmes until at least 21 years. It also reflects the impact of more than two decades of advocacy by service providers, researchers, and care experienced young people (Mendes, 2019).