Cost-benefit analysis of extending support for residential care leavers in South Australia
Extending support to 21 years for residential care leavers in South Australia
CAFFSA launched new analysis by Deloitte Access Economics at an event in Adelaide on 19 February 2026, launched in partnership with the National Home Stretch Campaign, the Australian Centre for Child Protection and a range of CAFFSA member agencies.
The cost-benefit analysis by Deloitte Access Economics shows that extending support to young people leaving residential care is not only the right thing to do, but would ultimately save the government money when the longer-term benefits are factored in.
South Australia (SA) was an early adopter of the Home Stretch reform for young people in foster care, but is one of only two jurisdictions in the country that does not offer extended support to those living in residential care beyond 18.
The Deloitte report, Cost-benefit analysis of extending support for residential care leavers in South Australia, found the following:
- $144,000 in total net benefit per young person
- Benefit–cost ratio of 3.25 when wellbeing benefits are included
- These benefits accrue not only to the young person, but to the South Australian community and government
- Young people who remain in care until 21 have greatly improved outcomes in housing stability, education and employment, mental health and wellbeing and reduced contact with the justice and health systems.
Following a clear call to action from Allie, a 20-year-old young consultant and advocate with a lived experience in out-of-home care since the age of six, a range of leaders, including Prof Leah Bromfield, Paul McDonald, Chair of Home Stretch and CEO, Anglicare Victoria, Luke Condon, Partner, Deloitte Access Economics outlined the urgent need for change with a move that would set young people leaving residential care with much better chances and save the South Australia Government over the long term, through reduced spending on government services into the future.