Supporting Young People Through Independence With Strength, Identity, and Connection
The Bringing Them Home program provides a continuous pathway of care for young people as they transition into adulthood. From preparing for independence at 18 to navigating the early adult years, the program ensures every young person has guidance, cultural grounding, and practical support. By keeping connections strong and opportunities open, Bringing Them Home empowers young people to step forward with confidence, resilience, and pride in who they are
What Leaving Care Involves
When young people reach 18, they leave statutory care. This transition is called leaving care. Preparation begins early, usually from the age of 16, so that by the time they reach adulthood, young people have the skills, resources and confidence they need.
Leaving care is about more than becoming independent. It’s about making informed decisions, staying connected to family and culture, and knowing that support doesn’t stop once care ends.
What Aftercare Means
Leaving statutory care is a big milestone, but independence doesn’t have to be faced alone. Aftercare provides ongoing support for young people as they navigate early adulthood. It’s flexible, responsive, and centred on each person’s goals, ensuring that culture, well-being and belonging remain strong.
Developing a Leaving Care Plan
Narang Bir-rong works closely with each young person to create a personalised Leaving Care Plan. This plan reflects their goals, strengths, and future aspirations. It also identifies the skills and supports they’ll need to step into adulthood with confidence.
The plan may include:
Health and well-being
continued access to medical, dental, emotional and therapeutic supports.
Education and training
pathways into further study, TAFE or employment.
Safe housing
options for secure and stable living arrangements.
Life skills
practical support with cooking, budgeting, banking, tenancy, and everyday responsibilities.
Cultural connections
maintaining ties to family, Elders, kinship and Country.
Financial planning
support to access entitlements and set up for independence.
How We Support Young People
Narang Bir-rong Aboriginal Corporation’s Programs Assistant and support team walk alongside each young person throughout the process. Together we:
- Begin planning early, around age 16.
- Provide cultural, emotional and practical support.
- Connect young people with services such as housing, health, education and financial assistance.
- Encourage family and community involvement wherever possible.
How We Walk With You
Every young person’s path after care looks different. Some are ready to step into work or study, while others need more time to build skills or find their direction. Our role is to listen, adapt, and provide support where and when it’s needed.
Through Aftercare, Narang Bir-rong can:
- Strengthen cultural identity – connecting with Elders, learning family history, or obtaining confirmation of Aboriginality.
- Provide practical guidance – from finding housing and managing a tenancy to handling bills and everyday responsibilities.
- Encourage education and career pathways – helping with applications, training opportunities, and preparing for work.
- Support health and well-being – linking with doctors, counsellors and therapeutic services.
- Be there in the tough moments – offering advice, advocacy or just someone to talk to when life feels overwhelming.
- Celebrate achievements – whether it’s starting a course, learning to drive, or getting that first job.
Why Leaving Care Planning Matters
When leaving care is carefully planned, young people:
Feel more confident and prepared for adulthood.
Maintain strong family and cultural ties.
Access the right supports at the right time.
Step into independence with resilience and pride.
Why Aftercare Matters
The years between 18 and 24 are full of change. Having steady support makes it easier to:
