History and Objectives
The Child and Family and Welfare Association of Australia (CAFWAA) is the national peak body representing non-government organisations working with children and young people and their families, where abuse and neglect is a major factor in determining the types of services provided.

Some agencies offer a range of out-of-home care and home-based service strategies, and others are concerned with policy development, professional practice and information in relation to this specific area of the broader community services sector

Our Aim

"To promote the welfare of children and young people in out-of-home care and those at risk of placement, together with their families"

How did CAFWAA come about?

Interstate links of individuals and organisations committed to the needs of children and young people in out of home care go back to the early 197Os

Consolidation of the value of these links was finally realised in the incorporation of CAFWAA in 1995.

Why have a National Association?

The primary interests of agencies involved in this sector are governed by state legislation, and funded through state bodies. However, significant policy development and funding opportunities occur at the national level that become subsumed under state practices, and State and Commonwealth agreements.

A national body more effectively channels our input into debates being held at a national level, and provides the Commonwealth Government with a national body that represents the sector.

CAFWAA responds to national issues through newsletters, issues and position papers, practice exchanges, conferences and national meetings that bring state leaders together to address issues and policies relating to Child and Family Welfare in Australia.