The Centre for Children and Young People (CCYP) in collaboration with Australian Childhood Foundation continues to demonstrate the power of research to shape policy and practice, with latest findings from the ARC Linkage project making a meaningful contribution to reform across the out-of-home care sector. 

Young people living in residential care face significant challenges that can prevent them from forming healthy relationships and developing a strong personal identity, both critical building blocks for their wellbeing and safety. Experiences of trauma, instability, and system complexity can make it particularly difficult for young people to feel connected, valued, and secure within care settings. 

Led by Professor Lynne McPherson the ARC Linkage project Strengthening Relationships and Connections for Young People in Therapeutic Residential Care responds directly to these challenges. For the first time in a large-scale mixed-methods study, the project listened to young people living in therapeutic residential care, alongside staff and managers across New South Wales, to better understand current practice and identify how it can be improved. 

The project aimed to build a strong evidence base about the practices that support young people in residential care to form strong, healthy relationships and develop a positive sense of self. This research highlights the importance of strong, trusting relationships, consistent oversight, and meaningful measures of safety and wellbeing in creating care environments where young people can thrive. This work is now informing system improvement at such a critical time for the sector. 

Importantly, the project’s findings have already had a tangible impact. Its evidence has directly informed major policy developments, including the NSW Department of Communities and Justice’s new System Review into Out-of-Home Care report and the NSW Ombudsman’s inquiry into Intensive Therapeutic Care. The research is cited extensively across both documents, highlighting its influence on shaping improved practice frameworks, strengthening care environments, and promoting better outcomes for young people living in residential care. 

Central to the project’s approach was a strong commitment to co-design and collaboration. The research was co-designed with a group of young people with lived experience of the residential care system and was guided by an adult advisory group comprising international academics, policy leaders, providers of intensive therapeutic care in NSW, and cultural advisors. This ensured the research remained grounded in lived experience, culturally informed, and responsive to sector needs. 

The study was undertaken by an expert research team led by Professor Lynne McPherson, working with Professor Anne Graham, Dr Antonia Canosa, and Dr Kylie Day at the Centre for Children and Young People (Southern Cross University). The team was joined by leading national and international researchers, including Professor Kathomi Gatwiri (Flinders University), Associate Professor Tim Moore (Australian Catholic University), Dr Donnah Anderson (Charles Sturt University), Professor Robbie Gilligan (Trinity College, Ireland), and Adjunct Associate Professor Janise Mitchell (Centre for Excellence in Therapeutic Care, Australian Childhood Foundation).

More information 

For more information about the project and to access recent outputs visit: Southern Cross University: Strengthening relationships & connections.