Lived experience driving change in Child and Family Support System
A new report is highlighting the powerful role of lived experience in shaping a more responsive and effective Child and Family Support System (CFSS) in South Australia.
The inaugural ‘CFSS Lived Experience Network – Impact Report’ was launched to coincide with a quarterly Lived Experience Network (LEN) meeting, attended by Human Services Minister, the Hon. Katrine Hildyard MP.
About the Lived Experience Network
The LEN brings together up to 15 System Advisors with firsthand experience of family stress and navigating support services. Their insights are used to inform policy, service design and system improvements across the Child and Family Support System.
The report demonstrates how lived experiences not only shape reform, but actively drive it. It highlights the importance of early intervention, meaningful engagement with families, and designing services that are accessible, culturally safe and responsive to community needs.
Lived Experience Network’s key achievements
In 2025 alone, LEN Advisors contributed to 11 consultations, delivered 6 presentations and provided ongoing advice across the system. Their influence has extended to key initiatives, including input into AC Care’s culturally safe practices, contributions to the CFSS Aboriginal Cultural Governance Framework, presenting at the CFSS Statewide Practitioner Communities of Practice, and engagement strategies to improve at-risk children's preschool participation.
The network has also informed practice guides for Safer Family Services, and contributed insights to the Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence.
How lived experiences are shaping change
For many advisors, sharing their experiences is about creating better outcomes for future generations. One member said contributing to the network helped turn their personal journey into something meaningful, ensuring others do not “slip through the cracks.”
“My hope is that practitioners feel better equipped to step in earlier so that children’s experiences are validated”.
Another reflected on how earlier access to support services could have significantly changed their own life, reinforcing the importance of keeping families together wherever possible.
“Coming from lived experience of the foster care system, I think about how the system now provides Intensive Family Support Services to families who are struggling. This is the kind of support that keeps families who are struggling together.”
The report underscores the value of embedding lived experience at the centre of system design. The Lived Experience Network is helping to ensure that the voices of children, young people and families are heard, respected and reflected in the way the system works.
The inaugural report marks an important milestone in strengthening collaboration between government and community, as South Australia continues to evolve its approach to supporting children and families.
View the inaugural CFSS Lived Experience Network (LEN) Impact Report