Children in care have statistically significantly higher cumulative developmental trauma and psychopathological vulnerability to ill mental health (O’Hare et al., 2021; Baldwin et al., 2019; Tarren-Sweeney, 2008; Magalhães & Calheiros, 2017, p. 442). Children in contact with child protection report the highest levels of mental ill health in the western world (O’Hare et al., 2021). This figure multiplies again for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people. When working with Aboriginal children, culture and family must also inform treatment. The Family Matters Report, 2021, suggests our multidisciplinary service teams are still isolating Aboriginal stake holders from planning and consultation.

The complexities of inter-linked risk factors of child mental health, for children in care, requires multi-disciplinary collaborative practice (Galbally, et al., 2021). Due to the extensive attachment poverty children in care navigate, finding culturally sustainable alternative sources of attachment within the stakeholder group is essential in preventing worsening of mental health (O’Hare, 2021; Galbally, et al., 2021). In response to this emerging research, a unique culturally sustainable mental health model has been created collaboratively by Queensland Mental Health, Child Safety, Yalga and the Arches Foundation

In this panel session, we explore not only the model, but also the collaborative process to provide unique and helpful insight into what this can look and feel like, as we work together to close the still there gap. The panel will explore how cultural sustainability, preventative mental health, and trauma informed practice informed the innovative framework of care for children and young people with extremely complex needs in out-of-home care. Our panel includes distinguished members from Queensland Mental Health, Child Safety, Yalga and the Arches Foundation.