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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Carer Kafe
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TZID:Australia/Melbourne
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DTSTART:20250405T160000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260101
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20270102
DTSTAMP:20260909T043323Z
CREATED:20260605T013520Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260909T043323Z
UID:10000233-1767225600-1798847999@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Upcoming Learning and Development Retreats
DESCRIPTION:There are no upcoming Learning and Development Retreats scheduled.\nTo stay up to date on future retreats\, please sign up for our newsletter here.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/retreat/
LOCATION:Victoria\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Carer Information,Retreat
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/06/Learning-Development-Retreats.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Carer Kafe":MAILTO:info@carerkafe.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260101
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20270102
DTSTAMP:20260611T011814Z
CREATED:20260611T011814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T011814Z
UID:10000234-1767225600-1798847999@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Upcoming Learning and Development Retreats
DESCRIPTION:There are no upcoming Learning and Development Retreats scheduled.\nTo stay up to date on future retreats\, please sign up for our newsletter here.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/learning-and-development-retreats/
LOCATION:Victoria\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Face-to-Face,Retreat
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/06/Learning-Development-Retreats.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Carer Kafe":MAILTO:info@carerkafe.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261023T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261024T153000
DTSTAMP:20260810T080022Z
CREATED:20260416T043232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260810T080022Z
UID:10000221-1792747800-1792855800@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Strengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara's Journey) – Online\, 23 & 24 October
DESCRIPTION:Time: 9.30am-3.30pm \nDate: Friday 23 & Saturday 24 October 2026 \nLocation: Online \nPresented by: VACCA \nStrengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara’s Journey) \nCARING FOR ABORIGINAL OR TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CHILDREN \nStrengthening Cultural Connections reflects a wide range of topics and information that non-Aboriginal carers need at an introductory level when caring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. \nPlease note these sessions are for carers only. Staff can register to attend ‘staff only’ sessions here. \nThere are four modules of learning: \nModule 1: Understanding Culture\nLearning objectives \n\nParticipants will be able to define what culture is\nParticipants will develop and explore their own culture\nParticipants will be able to explain the concepts of cultural disconnection and how it affects individuals and communities\n\nModule 2: History of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People\nLearning objectives \n\nParticipants will explore key elements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people before colonisation\nParticipants will develop an understanding of the timeline and key events of colonisation\nParticipants will explore the immediate impacts of colonisation\nParticipants will identify important government policies and legislation\n\nModule 3: It’s not all in the past- contemporary issues for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people\nLearning objectives \n\nLearners will develop a deeper understanding of the foundations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and knowledge systems\nLearners will develop an understanding of the long-term and ongoing impact of past experiences\, policies and legislation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families today.\nLearners will begin to identify practical ways of promoting cultural connections for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people\nLearners will be empowered to engage in and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events and activities as allies\n\nModule 4: Advocacy and your role as a carer\nLearning Objectives \n\nLearners will develop an understanding of the Child Protection system to empower them when advocating for the cultural needs of children and young people in their care.\nLearners will understand microaggressions\, privilege and discrimination and identify ways to advocate for children and young people who may experience discrimination\n\n  \nPlease note these sessions are for carers only. Staff can register to attend ‘staff only’ sessions here.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/strengthening-cultural-connections-replacing-nikaras-journey-online-23-24-october/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/05/Strengthening-Cultural-Connections-Training-WebSlide-750x497px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261024T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261024T120000
DTSTAMP:20260422T034701Z
CREATED:20260422T015731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T034701Z
UID:10000227-1792836000-1792843200@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Reflective Practice/ Cultural Yarns for Carers of Aboriginal Children – October
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday 24 October \nTime: 10.00 AM – 12.00 PM \nLocation: Online (Zoom) \nPresented by: Yolanda Finette \nThese sessions are designed to support carers to strengthen their confidence\, knowledge\, and practical skills in nurturing the cultural identity\, belonging\, and wellbeing of Aboriginal children in their care. \nThe sessions aim to: \n\nCreate a culturally safe reflective space for carers to connect\, share experiences\, and learn from one another\nStrengthen carers’ understanding of the protective role of culture in Aboriginal children’s development and wellbeing\nSupport carers to implement Cultural Support Plans in meaningful and practical ways\nProvide guidance\, resources\, and links to community supports\nReduce isolation for carers by fostering peer connection and collective learning\n\nYolanda Finette is a proud Yorta Yorta woman and award‑winning holistic life coach\, consultant\, and wellbeing facilitator. With over 25 years’ experience across child\, youth\, and family services in both the Naarm Aboriginal community and the United States\, she brings a trauma‑informed\, anti‑oppression\, and culturally grounded approach shaped by her Aboriginal\, African American\, and Greek heritage. \nNamed Sacred Leadership Coach of the Decade (2024) and Emerging Coach of the Year (2019)\, Yolanda’s work has been featured in Good Weekend\, The Age\, Sydney Morning Herald\, and Inspired Coach Magazine. Her Dreaming path is to empower First Nations people to embrace their strengths and step boldly into courageous leadership. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/reflective-practice-cultural-yarns-for-carers-of-aboriginal-children-october/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/12/Aboriginal-from-Yolanda-Finette.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261027T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261027T123000
DTSTAMP:20260826T054849Z
CREATED:20260826T052952Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T054849Z
UID:10000266-1793098800-1793104200@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:THE HEAL SERIES - Session 2: Tangled in a Complex System
DESCRIPTION:THE HEAL SERIES – Hope\, Empathy\, Acceptance & Learning \nSession 2: Tangled in a Complex System \nDate: Tuesday 27 October \nTime: 11.00AM – 12.30 PM \nLocation: Zoom online \nFacilitators: Lainie Terbogt and Kathryn Eberly Family Therapy – Restoring Families \nAbout the HEAL Series \nThe HEAL series—Hope\, Empathy\, Acceptance and Learning—focuses on the impact of caring. Each session combines psychoeducation\, group facilitation\, shared lived experience\, and practical tools and strategies that carers can apply in their caring role. \nCarers may choose to participate in one\, two\, three\, or all four sessions. \nSession Overview \nCarers often navigate multiple services while advocating for children with complex needs. The cumulative demands of these systems can significantly affect wellbeing and contribute to stress\, uncertainty and feelings of powerlessness. This workshop explores the impact of system complexity on carers and provides practical strategies to strengthen regulation\, advocacy\, communication and self-care while navigating complex systems. \nPresenters \nLainie Terbogt and Kathryn Eberly are highly experienced social workers and family therapists. They have worked in the out-of-home care system for more than 20 years and\, through their private practice\, Restoring Families\, have supported more than 500 carer families. \nOver the past six years\, more than 300 kinship and foster carers have participated in their training sessions. Lainie and Kathryn have presented at the national Kinship and Foster Carer Conference\, as well as other summits and symposiums\, and have previously delivered training for Carer Kafe. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/the-heal-series-session-2/
LOCATION:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/the-heal-series-session-2/
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/08/Picture1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261029T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261029T130000
DTSTAMP:20260812T005222Z
CREATED:20260807T062643Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T005222Z
UID:10000253-1793268000-1793278800@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Therapeutic Foster Care Series— Session 2: Responding to behaviours that challenge us
DESCRIPTION:Therapeutic Foster Care Series \nThe Therapeutic Foster Care series includes 4 online sessions looking at the core concepts of therapeutic foster care that are practically focused and interactive. \nTherapeutic care is a specific way of providing out of home care that is grounded in intentional healing using the essence and strength of authentic and responsive relationships. \nThe series is designed for Therapeutic Foster Carers and open to All Foster Carers. Foster carers can register for one or more of the four online sessions. \nSession 2: Responding to behaviours that challenge us \nDate: Thursday 29 October \nTime: 10.00am – 1.00pm (3 hours) \nOften the children and young people we care for are defined by their behaviour\, but this is not who they are. Behaviour can delight us\, frustrate us or challenge us but it is all representative of our experiences\, needs and stories. This session will consider how we can understand the meaning that sits behind behaviour and how we can supportively respond to it. \nBy participating in this session\, it is expected that carers will: \n· Identify some of the current behaviours that challenge – and what makes them so challenging \n· Explore the meaning that sits behind those identified behaviours \n· Consider the range of behaviours that children and young people share with us \n· Build new strategies for best meeting the needs of children and young people in their care\, and reducing the need for the behaviour that challenges us \n· Consider ways of responding to behaviours that challenge us as adults who care \n· Reinforce the relevance and importance of self-care in the context of responding to behaviours that challenge us \nMarina Dickson has significant experience in developmental trauma and working collaboratively with those who care for and support children and young people.  She works hard to ensure her training programs are both practically focused and include a bit of fun. Marina holds a Bachelor of Social Work and a Graduate Diploma in Vocational Education and Training\, as well as an MBA.  She has also completed a Certificate qualification in Bereavement Counselling. \nThe series is designed for Therapeutic Foster Carers and open to All Foster Carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/trauma-informed-series-session-2-responding-to-behaviours-that-challenge-us/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/08/Trauma-Informed-Series-Carer-Kafe.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261030T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261030T153000
DTSTAMP:20260916T043902Z
CREATED:20260916T043613Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260916T043902Z
UID:10000274-1793352600-1793374200@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Providing Culturally Safe\, Trauma-Informed and Therapeutic Care to Aboriginal Children - Chirnside
DESCRIPTION:Date: Friday 30th October 2026 \nTime: 9:30am – 3:30pm – Morning tea and lunch provided \nLocation: Chirnside Park Country Club\, 68 Kingswood Dr\, Chirnside Park – $50 voucher to support travel costs \nPresented by: VACCA \nThis training supports carers to better understand the experiences\, behaviours\, and needs of Aboriginal children in out-of-home care. Through a culturally safe and trauma-informed lens\, participants will develop practical skills to promote healing\, strengthen attachment\, and create nurturing\, supportive environments. \nFor both carers of Aboriginal children and carers of non-Aboriginal children \nTo book and more info: book via Carer Kafe or contact trainingevents@vacca.org \n 
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/providing-culturally-safe-trauma-informed-and-therapeutic-care-to-aboriginal-children-chirnside/
LOCATION:Chirnside Park Country Club\, 68 Kingswood Dr\, Chirnside Park\, VIC\, 3116\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Face-to-Face
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-16-142922.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261031T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261031T113000
DTSTAMP:20260916T005622Z
CREATED:20260826T005248Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260916T005622Z
UID:10000263-1793440800-1793446200@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Services Australia – Grandparents Foster and Kinship Adviser Program\, October
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday 31 October 2026 \nTime: 10.00am – 11.30am \nLocation: Zoom online \nJoin us for this session from Services Australia that will: \n\nIntroduce you to the Grandparents Foster and Kinship Advisor Program\nGive you valuable insight into what claims you can make and how to make them\nProvide you with information on who to contact for advice and assistance\nAnswer your general questions\n\nSpecialist information will be provided by Sandra – Grandparent\, Foster and Kinship Care Advisor. Sandra has been an active and registered foster carer for the past 34 years and loves this role and the opportunity to help her fellow carers. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/services-australia-grandparents-foster-and-kinship-adviser-program-october/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/07/Foster-Care-Grandparents.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261104T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261104T130000
DTSTAMP:20260802T232925Z
CREATED:20260729T055408Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260802T232925Z
UID:10000244-1793786400-1793797200@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:The Effects of Trauma on the Developing Brain and How to Support Healing
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday 04 November \nTime: 10.00 AM – 1.00 PM \nLocation: Online (Zoom) \nPresented by: Karen Young \nExplore the impact of trauma on the developing brain in childhood and adolescence. This 3-hour workshop will support carers to identify and understand the effects of trauma on learning\, behaviour\, regulation\, relationships\, and how to support young people towards growth. It will also provide carers with ways to build relationships that protect and heal. \nThere will be time for questions. \nThis workshop is presented by Karen Young\, who began her career as a psychologist in private practice and is now recognised as a leading authority on child and adolescent anxiety. Karen created Hey Sigmund – Building Courage in Kids & Teens With Anxiety\, an internationally popular online resource\, is the author of 5 books\, has appeared on television and radio\, and has proven popular in presenting previous Carer Kafe webinars. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/the-effects-of-trauma-on-the-developing-brain-and-how-to-support-healing-2/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/07/TDB.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261106T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261107T153000
DTSTAMP:20261016T052514Z
CREATED:20260416T044611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261016T052514Z
UID:10000223-1793957400-1794065400@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Strengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara's Journey) – Shepparton
DESCRIPTION:Time: 9.30am-3.30pm \nDate: Friday 6 & Saturday 7 November 2026 (Lunch provided) \nLocation: Mooroopna Secondary College\, 141 – 147 Echuca-Mooroopna Road\, Mooroopna\, VIC\, 3125 \nPresented by: VACCA \nA $50 digital gift card will be emailed to you after the session to assist with travel and childcare costs. \nStrengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara’s Journey) \nCARING FOR ABORIGINAL OR TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CHILDREN \nStrengthening Cultural Connections reflects a wide range of topics and information that non-Aboriginal carers need at an introductory level when caring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. \nPlease note these sessions are for carers only. Staff can register to attend ‘staff only’ sessions here. \nThere are four modules of learning: \nModule 1: Understanding Culture\nLearning objectives \n\nParticipants will be able to define what culture is\nParticipants will develop and explore their own culture\nParticipants will be able to explain the concepts of cultural disconnection and how it affects individuals and communities\n\nModule 2: History of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People\nLearning objectives \n\nParticipants will explore key elements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people before colonisation\nParticipants will develop an understanding of the timeline and key events of colonisation\nParticipants will explore the immediate impacts of colonisation\nParticipants will identify important government policies and legislation\n\nModule 3: It’s not all in the past- contemporary issues for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people\nLearning objectives \n\nLearners will develop a deeper understanding of the foundations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and knowledge systems\nLearners will develop an understanding of the long-term and ongoing impact of past experiences\, policies and legislation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families today.\nLearners will begin to identify practical ways of promoting cultural connections for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people\nLearners will be empowered to engage in and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events and activities as allies\n\nModule 4: Advocacy and your role as a carer\nLearning Objectives \n\nLearners will develop an understanding of the Child Protection system to empower them when advocating for the cultural needs of children and young people in their care.\nLearners will understand microaggressions\, privilege and discrimination and identify ways to advocate for children and young people who may experience discrimination\n\n  \nPlease note these sessions are for carers only. Staff can register to attend ‘staff only’ sessions here.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/strengthening-cultural-connections-replacing-nikaras-journey-shepparton/
LOCATION:Mooroopna Secondary College\, 141 - 147 Echuca-Mooroopna Road\, Mooroopna\, VIC\, 3125\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Face-to-Face
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/05/Strengthening-Cultural-Connections-Training-WebSlide-750x497px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261110T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261110T113000
DTSTAMP:20260810T085933Z
CREATED:20260807T071844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260810T085933Z
UID:10000257-1794304800-1794310200@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Online Safety & Digital Wellbeing for children in care (0-18 years)
DESCRIPTION:Date: Tuesday 10 November \nTime: 10.00 AM-11.30 AM \nLocation: Zoom online \nFacilitator: Evolve Education \nBuild practical skills and confidence to support the children and young people in your care to engage safely online while maintaining positive\, supportive relationships. \nAs a result of participation in this 90-minute webinar\, carers will:  \n\nIncrease their knowledge of current online risks affecting children and young people.\nRecognise indicators of online grooming\, cyberbullying and image-based abuse.\nUnderstand how trauma may influence online behaviour and help-seeking.\nGain practical strategies to support safer online engagement.\nDevelop confidence to have constructive online safety conversations.\nLearn how to access reporting pathways and support services.\nBuild skills to respond effectively when online harm occurs.\n\nEvolve’s trainers are trusted eSafety providers with a high level of industry experience and a Bachelor of Education background. They have a background of working in and with schools and acknowledge the unique challenges families currently face in the digital space. They have been providing digital safety and wellbeing programs to Carer Kafe for over 3 years. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/online-safety-digital-wellbeing-for-children-in-care-0-18-years/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/08/Respectful-relationships-CK-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261111T103000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261118T133000
DTSTAMP:20260923T051140Z
CREATED:20260923T044123Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T051140Z
UID:10000278-1794393000-1795008600@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Emotional Intelligence and the importance of emotion coaching kids in care - Seminar series
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday 11 and Wednesday 18 November \nTime: 10.30am – 1.30pm (Including lunch) \nLocation: The Dandenong Club\, 1579 Heatherton Road\, Dandenong\, VIC 3175 – Banquet Room (downstairs) \nFacilitator: Joanie Bartolo – Emotion Wise \nA $50 digital voucher will be emailed after the training to assist with potential travel or babysitting costs \nPart 1: EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF EMOTION COACHING KIDS IN CARE (Wednesday 11 November) \nThis session will provide carers of children and young people of all ages with: \n\nA brief introduction to the key principles from Tuning in to Kids® and Tuning in to Teens®\nA focus on the emotional connection between carers and children\nPractical skills in emotion coaching including recognising\, understanding and responding to children’s emotions in an accepting supportive way\n\nPART 2: EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND EMOTION COACHING ANGER (Wednesday 18 November) \nThis session builds on the Emotion Coaching steps provided by Joanie Bartolo in Part 1 and then moves on to explore anger – what is underneath and how to respond and support children and young people. \nCarers will need to have registered and participated in Part 1 if they wish to join Part 2. \nJoanie Bartolo is the Principal Consultant at Emotion Wise. She is a qualified social worker and an accredited Tuning in to Kids® and Tuning in to Teens® practitioner. Joanie has worked with children and families for 25 years and has been a consultant for over 10 years. She has a particular passion for working with children who have experienced trauma and believes in fostering the relationship between children and their families. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/emotional-intelligence-and-the-importance-of-emotion-coaching-kids-in-care-seminar-series/
LOCATION:The Dandenong Club\, 1579 Heatherton Road\, Dandenong\, VIC\, 3175\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Face-to-Face
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/02/Emotion-Wise.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261114T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261114T120000
DTSTAMP:20260812T002258Z
CREATED:20260807T072804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T002258Z
UID:10000258-1794650400-1794657600@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) and Adolescence
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday\, 14 November 2026 \nTime: 10:00am – 12:00pm \nLocation: Zoom online \nPresented by: NOFASD (National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders) \nAre you caring for a child or young person who is\, or you suspect is\, affected by FASD? \nThis session will equip carers with practical strategies to respond to common challenges\, recognise strengths\, and promote positive outcomes for young people with FASD. \nThe National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (NOFASD) Australia is the oldest established FASD organisation in Australia. Founded and led by parents and carers for more than 20 years. NOFASD has been delivering workshops to community organisations for nearly 10 years. Feedback is consistently positive\, with over 95% of participants who completed this workshop stating that they would recommend it. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/fasd-fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorder-and-adolescence/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/01/6eb37813fe00f3da65e3d96ac14a8f25.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261117T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261117T153000
DTSTAMP:20260916T044025Z
CREATED:20260916T043030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260916T044025Z
UID:10000273-1794907800-1794929400@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Providing Culturally Safe\, Trauma-Informed and Therapeutic Care to Aboriginal Children - Wangaratta
DESCRIPTION:Date: Tuesday 17th November 2026 \nTime: 9:30am – 3:30pm – Morning tea and lunch provided \nLocation: Gateway Hotel\, 29-37 Ryley St\, Wangaratta – $50 voucher to support travel costs \nPresented by: VACCA \nThis training supports carers to better understand the experiences\, behaviours\, and needs of Aboriginal children in out-of-home care. Through a culturally safe and trauma-informed lens\, participants will develop practical skills to promote healing\, strengthen attachment\, and create nurturing\, supportive environments. \nFor both carers of Aboriginal children and carers of non-Aboriginal children \nTo book and more info: book via Carer Kafe or contact trainingevents@vacca.org \n 
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/providing-culturally-safe-trauma-informed-and-therapeutic-care-to-aboriginal-children-wangarratta/
LOCATION:Gateway Hotel\, 29-37 Ryley St\, Wangaratta\, VIC\, 3677\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Face-to-Face
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-16-142922.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261117T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261117T123000
DTSTAMP:20260826T054818Z
CREATED:20260826T053955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T054818Z
UID:10000268-1794913200-1794918600@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:THE HEAL SERIES - Session 3: Caring\, Grief and Living in Limbo
DESCRIPTION:THE HEAL SERIES – Hope\, Empathy\, Acceptance & Learning \nSession 3: Caring\, Grief and Living in Limbo \nDate: Tuesday 17 November \nTime: 11.00AM – 12.30 PM \nLocation: Zoom online \nFacilitators: Lainie Terbogt and Kathryn Eberly Family Therapy – Restoring Families \nAbout the HEAL Series \nThe HEAL series—Hope\, Empathy\, Acceptance and Learning—focuses on the impact of caring. Each session combines psychoeducation\, group facilitation\, shared lived experience\, and practical tools and strategies that carers can apply in their caring role. \nCarers may choose to participate in one\, two\, three\, or all four sessions. \nSession Overview \nCaring creates deep attachment\, connection and love. Alongside these meaningful relationships\, carers may also experience grief\, ambiguous loss and ongoing uncertainty that often goes unseen or unrecognised. This workshop validates the hidden impact of caring-related grief\, explores how it can be understood through an attachment lens\, and offers practical strategies to support healing\, resilience and emotional wellbeing. \nPresenters \nLainie Terbogt and Kathryn Eberly are highly experienced social workers and family therapists. They have worked in the out-of-home care system for more than 20 years and\, through their private practice\, Restoring Families\, have supported more than 500 carer families. \nOver the past six years\, more than 300 kinship and foster carers have participated in their training sessions. Lainie and Kathryn have presented at the national Kinship and Foster Carer Conference\, as well as other summits and symposiums\, and have previously delivered training for Carer Kafe. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/the-heal-series-session-3-caring-grief-and-living-in-limbo/
LOCATION:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/the-heal-series-session-3-caring-grief-and-living-in-limbo/
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/08/Picture1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261119T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261119T130000
DTSTAMP:20260819T002640Z
CREATED:20260819T002304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260819T002640Z
UID:10000262-1795082400-1795093200@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Supporting positive cultural identity for children and young people from multicultural backgrounds
DESCRIPTION:Date: Thursday 19 November  \nTime: 10.00am – 1.00pm (3 hours)  \nLocation: Online (Zoom) \nPresented by: Janet Irvine\, SSI Diversity Training Manager \nWith 1 in 2 Australians born overseas or having at least one parent who was born overseas it is likely you will be caring for a child or young person from a different cultural background to your own. \nThis workshop explores the importance of supporting children and young people from multicultural backgrounds to develop positive cultural identity as the scaffolding for positive self-esteem and resilience. \nAt the end of this workshop carers will be able to: \n\nDescribe the influence of culture on the interaction between themselves and the children and young people they are caring for\nDescribe the impact of racism and prejudice on the development of cultural identity\nDiscuss strategies to reduce the damaging effects of prejudice and discrimination\nRespond to resistance to engage with cultural support strategies from the child or young person\nIdentify strategies to support the development of positive cultural identity for children and young people in care\n\nThis workshop specifically addresses the experiences of children from migrant and refugee backgrounds however carers of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children and young people will find content relevant. \nJanet Irvine is the Manager of SSI Diversity Training\, an initiative of Settlement Services International\, providing learning solutions that build culturally responsive workforces.  Janet has extensive experience working with newly arrived families from a refugee background as a counsellor\, caseworker and educator.  This experience and her role providing a range of training for child protection and out-of-home care caseworkers has cultivated her passion for creating learning spaces for people to hone their skills to be more culturally responsive and trauma informed.   \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers. 
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/supporting-positive-cultural-identity-november/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/12/CALD-pexels-kampus-6299282-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261121T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261121T130000
DTSTAMP:20260812T005241Z
CREATED:20260807T063124Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T005241Z
UID:10000254-1795255200-1795266000@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Therapeutic Foster Care Series— Session 3: Our own self-care is more than ‘nice to have’
DESCRIPTION:Therapeutic Foster Care Series \nThe Therapeutic Foster Care series includes 4 online sessions looking at the core concepts of therapeutic foster care that are practically focused and interactive. \nTherapeutic care is a specific way of providing out of home care that is grounded in intentional healing using the essence and strength of authentic and responsive relationships. \nThe series is designed for Therapeutic Foster Carers and open to All Foster Carers. Foster carers can register for one or more of the four online sessions. \nSession 3: Our own self-care is more than ‘nice to have’ \nDate: Saturday 21 November \nTime: 10.00am – 1.00pm (3 hours) \nWe regularly hear about the importance of self-care\, but it is hard to prioritise wellbeing processes in the midst of everything else we are juggling. This session focuses on understanding what self-care is\, why it is essential to providing therapeutic care as well as being realistic about the ‘how’ and ‘when’ of actually doing it. \nBy participating in this session\, it is expected that carers will: \n· Connect their understanding of trauma and its possible impacts to the possible impacts of caring \n· Explore the difference between burnout and secondary trauma \n· Identify and find ways to manage wellbeing that are practical and focused on the preferences of each individual carer ie: ‘what works for me?’ \n· Cut through the ‘fluff’ that can surround self-care \nMarina Dickson has significant experience in developmental trauma and working collaboratively with those who care for and support children and young people.  She works hard to ensure her training programs are both practically focused and include a bit of fun. Marina holds a Bachelor of Social Work and a Graduate Diploma in Vocational Education and Training\, as well as an MBA.  She has also completed a Certificate qualification in Bereavement Counselling. \nThe series is designed for Therapeutic Foster Carers and open to All Foster Carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/trauma-informed-series-session-3-our-own-self-care-is-more-than-nice-to-have/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/08/Trauma-Informed-Series-Carer-Kafe.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261124T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261124T123000
DTSTAMP:20260826T054324Z
CREATED:20260826T054324Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T054324Z
UID:10000269-1795518000-1795523400@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:THE HEAL SERIES - Session 4: Restoring Caring and Managing Complex Behaviours
DESCRIPTION:THE HEAL SERIES – Hope\, Empathy\, Acceptance & Learning \nSession 4: Restoring Caring and Managing Complex Behaviours \nDate: Tuesday 24 November \nTime: 11.00AM – 12.30 PM \nLocation: Zoom online \nFacilitators: Lainie Terbogt and Kathryn Eberly Family Therapy – Restoring Families \nAbout the HEAL Series \nThe HEAL series—Hope\, Empathy\, Acceptance and Learning—focuses on the impact of caring. Each session combines psychoeducation\, group facilitation\, shared lived experience\, and practical tools and strategies that carers can apply in their caring role. \nCarers may choose to participate in one\, two\, three\, or all four sessions. \nSession Overview \nUnderstanding behaviour begins with understanding the child’s nervous system—and our own. This workshop introduces practical\, trauma-informed approaches to responding to complex behaviours by applying the Restoring Caring® model. Participants will strengthen their understanding of behaviour\, build confidence in their responses\, and develop reflective practices that support both child wellbeing and sustainable caregiving. \nPresenters \nLainie Terbogt and Kathryn Eberly are highly experienced social workers and family therapists. They have worked in the out-of-home care system for more than 20 years and\, through their private practice\, Restoring Families\, have supported more than 500 carer families. \nOver the past six years\, more than 300 kinship and foster carers have participated in their training sessions. Lainie and Kathryn have presented at the national Kinship and Foster Carer Conference\, as well as other summits and symposiums\, and have previously delivered training for Carer Kafe. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/the-heal-series-session-4-restoring-caring-and-managing-complex-behaviours/
LOCATION:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/the-heal-series-session-4-restoring-caring-and-managing-complex-behaviours/
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/08/Picture1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261125T103000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261125T140000
DTSTAMP:20260909T005742Z
CREATED:20260909T000038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260909T005742Z
UID:10000271-1795602600-1795615200@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Supporting Kinship Carers Wellbeing - Creative Arts & Sound Therapy
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate Kinship Care Week 2026 \nDate: Wednesday 25 November 2026 \nTime: 10:30AM TO 2PM \nLocation: Melton Country Club\, 28-30 Reserve Rd\, Melton \nPresenter: Christina Borg \nJoin other kinship carers for a nurturing and inclusive wellbeing guided art therapy workshop supporting kinship carers’ emotional wellbeing\, self-reflection and regulation in a calm\, supportive space. Slow down\, reflect and express with meditation\, sound healing and art. \nThis seminar will combine creative self-expressive art\, gentle movement\, meditation and sound therapy. \nChristina Borg is MA in Therapeutic Arts Practices\, BA Community Development\, Adv. Dip Welfare work\, Dip. Counselling\, Cert IV Training & Assessment. Registered with ACA\, PACFA\, ANZACATA\, CWA.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/supporting-kinship-carers-wellbeing-creative-arts-sound-therapy/
LOCATION:Melton Country Club\, Melton\, Melton Country Club\, 28-30 Reserve Road\, Melton\, VIC\, 3337\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Kinship,Face-to-Face
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/09/creative-arts.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261126T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261126T130000
DTSTAMP:20260812T005321Z
CREATED:20260807T063510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T005321Z
UID:10000255-1795687200-1795698000@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Therapeutic Foster Care Series— Session 4: ‘Therapeutic care means always saying yes’ – exploring this and other myths about therapeutic care
DESCRIPTION:Therapeutic Foster Care Series \nThe Therapeutic Foster Care series includes 4 online sessions looking at the core concepts of therapeutic foster care that are practically focused and interactive. \nTherapeutic care is a specific way of providing out of home care that is grounded in intentional healing using the essence and strength of authentic and responsive relationships. \nThe series is designed for Therapeutic Foster Carers and open to All Foster Carers. Foster carers can register for one or more of the four online sessions. \nSession 4: ‘Therapeutic care means always saying yes’ – exploring this and other myths about therapeutic care \nDate: Thursday 26 November \nTime: 10.00am – 1.00pm (3 hours) \nUnderstanding care that has an intentional healing purpose is complex\, but it is also misunderstood – and this can leave carers feeling confused or unsupported. This session explores the most common myths about therapeutic care and also provides carers the opportunity to have their biggest questions answered. Participants can submit questions prior to the session to ensure it meets their specific and pressing needs. \nBy participating in this session\, it is expected that carers will: \n· Identify some of the myths surrounding what therapeutic care is and how it is provided \n· Build new strategies for best meeting the needs of children and young people in their care \n· Raise and have answers for their ‘burning questions’ about caring for children and young people who have experienced trauma \n· Explore practical ideas that flow on from the identified myths and questions \nMarina Dickson has significant experience in developmental trauma and working collaboratively with those who care for and support children and young people.  She works hard to ensure her training programs are both practically focused and include a bit of fun. Marina holds a Bachelor of Social Work and a Graduate Diploma in Vocational Education and Training\, as well as an MBA.  She has also completed a Certificate qualification in Bereavement Counselling. \nThe series is designed for Therapeutic Foster Carers and open to All Foster Carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/trauma-informed-series-session-4-therapeutic-care-means-always-saying-yes-exploring-this-and-other-myths-about-therapeutic-care/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/08/Trauma-Informed-Series-Carer-Kafe.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261126T103000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261126T133000
DTSTAMP:20260924T011654Z
CREATED:20260923T012427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260924T011654Z
UID:10000276-1795689000-1795699800@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:VACCA Cultural Connection Day - Royal Botanical Gardens
DESCRIPTION:VACCA Cultural Day – Royal Botanical Gardens \nThis is a free event for both carers of Aboriginal children and carers of non-Aboriginal children \nDate: Thursday 26th November 2026 \nTime: 10.30AM – 1.30PM \nLocation: Royal Botanical Gardens\, Birdwood Avenue\, VIC 3000 \nJoin other carers of Aboriginal children for a day of connection\, learning\, and yarning on Kulin Nation Country. Guided by a First Nations facilitator\, carers will learn about native plants\, culture\, and ongoing connection to Country\, while building relationships and confidence to support Aboriginal children’s identity and wellbeing \nA $50 digital gift voucher will be emailed to you after the session to assist with travel and childcare costs. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/vacca-cultural-connection-day-royal-botanical-gardens/
LOCATION:Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne\, Birdwood Avenue\, Melbourne\, VIC\, 3000\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Face-to-Face
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/09/5d13181a-a1cc-4bc4-a3b5-c6021b50aad3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261201T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261202T153000
DTSTAMP:20260810T075953Z
CREATED:20260416T044135Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260810T075953Z
UID:10000222-1796117400-1796225400@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Strengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara's Journey) – Online\, 1 & 2 December
DESCRIPTION:Time: 9.30am-3.30pm \nDate: Tuesday 1 and Wednesday 2 December 2026 \nLocation: Online \nPresented by: VACCA \nStrengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara’s Journey) \nCARING FOR ABORIGINAL OR TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CHILDREN \nStrengthening Cultural Connections reflects a wide range of topics and information that non-Aboriginal carers need at an introductory level when caring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. \nPlease note these sessions are for carers only. Staff can register to attend ‘staff only’ sessions here. \nThere are four modules of learning: \nModule 1: Understanding Culture\nLearning objectives \n\nParticipants will be able to define what culture is\nParticipants will develop and explore their own culture\nParticipants will be able to explain the concepts of cultural disconnection and how it affects individuals and communities\n\nModule 2: History of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People\nLearning objectives \n\nParticipants will explore key elements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people before colonisation\nParticipants will develop an understanding of the timeline and key events of colonisation\nParticipants will explore the immediate impacts of colonisation\nParticipants will identify important government policies and legislation\n\nModule 3: It’s not all in the past- contemporary issues for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people\nLearning objectives \n\nLearners will develop a deeper understanding of the foundations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and knowledge systems\nLearners will develop an understanding of the long-term and ongoing impact of past experiences\, policies and legislation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families today.\nLearners will begin to identify practical ways of promoting cultural connections for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people\nLearners will be empowered to engage in and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events and activities as allies\n\nModule 4: Advocacy and your role as a carer\nLearning Objectives \n\nLearners will develop an understanding of the Child Protection system to empower them when advocating for the cultural needs of children and young people in their care.\nLearners will understand microaggressions\, privilege and discrimination and identify ways to advocate for children and young people who may experience discrimination\n\n  \nPlease note these sessions are for carers only. Staff can register to attend ‘staff only’ sessions here.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/strengthening-cultural-connections-replacing-nikaras-journey-online-1-2-december/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/05/Strengthening-Cultural-Connections-Training-WebSlide-750x497px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261201T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261201T120000
DTSTAMP:20260903T031500Z
CREATED:20260422T020137Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T031500Z
UID:10000228-1796119200-1796126400@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Reflective Practice/ Cultural Yarns for Carers of Aboriginal Children – December
DESCRIPTION:Date: Tuesday 01 December \nTime: 10.00 AM – 12.00 PM \nLocation: Online (Zoom) \nPresented by: Yolanda Finette \nThese sessions are designed to support carers to strengthen their confidence\, knowledge\, and practical skills in nurturing the cultural identity\, belonging\, and wellbeing of Aboriginal children in their care. \nThe sessions aim to: \n\nCreate a culturally safe reflective space for carers to connect\, share experiences\, and learn from one another\nStrengthen carers’ understanding of the protective role of culture in Aboriginal children’s development and wellbeing\nSupport carers to implement Cultural Support Plans in meaningful and practical ways\nProvide guidance\, resources\, and links to community supports\nReduce isolation for carers by fostering peer connection and collective learning\n\nYolanda Finette is a proud Yorta Yorta woman and award‑winning holistic life coach\, consultant\, and wellbeing facilitator. With over 25 years’ experience across child\, youth\, and family services in both the Naarm Aboriginal community and the United States\, she brings a trauma‑informed\, anti‑oppression\, and culturally grounded approach shaped by her Aboriginal\, African American\, and Greek heritage. \nNamed Sacred Leadership Coach of the Decade (2024) and Emerging Coach of the Year (2019)\, Yolanda’s work has been featured in Good Weekend\, The Age\, Sydney Morning Herald\, and Inspired Coach Magazine. Her Dreaming path is to empower First Nations people to embrace their strengths and step boldly into courageous leadership. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/reflective-practice-cultural-yarns-for-carers-of-aboriginal-children-december/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/12/Aboriginal-from-Yolanda-Finette.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261202T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261202T140000
DTSTAMP:20260909T005536Z
CREATED:20260909T002356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260909T005536Z
UID:10000272-1796209200-1796220000@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Understanding Financial Support for Kinship Carers
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate Kinship Care Week 2026 \nDate: Wednesday 2 December 2026 \nTime: Seminar – 11:00AM TO 2PM\, Lunch – 12.30pm -2pm \nLocation: Dandenong Club\, 1579 Heatherton Rd\, Dandenong \nPresenter: Specialist Advisor from Services Australia \nUnderstanding financial supports available from Services Australia (Centrelink) \nThe GFK adviser from Services Australia will guide kinship carers through the financial support available to them from the federal government.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/understanding-financial-support-for-kinship-carers/
LOCATION:Dandenong Club\, 1579 Heatherton Road\, Dandenong Nth\, VIC\, 3175\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Kinship,Face-to-Face
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/09/financial-support.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261203T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261204T160000
DTSTAMP:20261022T010217Z
CREATED:20261020T054533Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261022T010217Z
UID:10000283-1796288400-1796400000@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Youth Mental Health First Aid  - December
DESCRIPTION:Date: 3 and 4 December \nTime: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (including a lunch break) \nLocation: Booln Booln Cultural Centre. 410 Surfcoast Highway\, Grovedale VIC \nPresented by: Baydon Widdicombe \nThe Youth Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health First Aid course teaches carers how to provide initial support to an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander young person (aged 12-18) who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis\, until professional support is received or the crisis resolves \nA certificate of participation will be issued\, or carers who successfully complete the course can choose to undertake the 3-year Accreditation process\, that involves a short online multiple-choice activity. This will be discussed in more detail at the workshop. \nCourse facilitator Baydon Widdicombe is a proud Dharug Man living on Dja Dja Wurrung Country in Central Victoria. Baydon is passionate about reducing Mental Health stigma and building the capacity of community to lead their own suicide prevention program. Baydon has worked within the local community and has a passion for educating others through sharing knowledge and opening up discussions. \nDownload Course Flyer  \nThis workshop is open to carers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children only. \nThe course content and discussions may cause some distress and discomfort\, and significant trigger warnings will be in place within the course.  \n 
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/aboriginal-torres-strait-islander-youth-mental-health-first-aid-december/
LOCATION:Booln Booln Cultural Centre\, Wathaurong Country\, 410 Surf Coast Hwy\, Charlemont\, VIC\, 3217\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Face-to-Face
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/12/4-August-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261205
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261207
DTSTAMP:20260928T043857Z
CREATED:20260923T021332Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260928T043857Z
UID:10000277-1796428800-1796601599@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Learning and Development Retreat for Carers of First Nations Children and Young People - The Sands Resort - Torquay
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday 5th – Sunday 6th December 2026 \nLocation: The Sands Resort\, 2 Sands Bvd\, Torquay VIC 3228 \nExpress Your Interest in the Torquay Carers of Aboriginal and First Nations Children and Young People Learning & Development Retreat \nJoin Carer Kafe for an enriching two-day Learning and Development Retreat on the traditional lands of the Wadawurrung Peoples of the Kulin Nation. \nConnect with fellow carers and gain insights from expert presenters through an engaging conference program in a supportive and welcoming environment. \nVictorian home-based kinship\, permanent\, and foster carers of Aboriginal and First Nations Children and Young People are invited to apply by via the Expression of Interest button by 30th October 2026. \nEligibility to attend: \n\nAll carers of Aboriginal and First Nations Children and Young People. (kinship\, permanent\, foster)\nCarers who have not attended a Carer Kafe Learning & Development Retreat in the past Financial Year (between July 2025 and June 2026) will be prioritised. However\, carers who attended within the last Financial Year (between July 2025 and June 2026) may still apply in case vacancies occur.\nMore than one adult per carer household may apply and separate applications for each adult is required. However\, priority will be given to one person per carer household.\nSelection will be based on Carer Kafe targets.\n\nWhat is included? \n\nAll learning and development sessions\nAll meals\nOne night’s accommodation (unless distances over 3 hours each way are travelled and an arrangement with Carer Kafe is made)\nA $300 voucher to help with associated costs of attending\n\nPlease note: To express your interest in the event\, you will need to create a Carer Kafe Portal account. If you don’t have one yet\, you can follow our step-by-step guide (with images) here to create one. \n  \nFuture retreats\nWe’re excited to announce VACCA’s first-ever Cultural Connections Retreat\, created especially for First Nations carers throughout Victoria. \nThe weekend will bring mob together for connection\, culture\, learning\, wellbeing\, Men’s and Women’s Business\, and opportunities to connect with other carers supporting children and young people in care. Accommodation and meals are included\, as are all cultural and wellbeing activities. A $300 attendance support voucher is also available. \nWhen: 6-7 February 2027 \nWhere: RACV Healesville Country Club \nTo express your interest\, please complete the linked EOI form below and email to trainingevents@vacca.org as soon as possible. \nClick to download the Cultural Connections Retreat EOI Form
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/learning-and-development-retreat-torquay-dec-2026/
LOCATION:The Sands Resort\, 2 Sands Blvd\, Torquay\, VIC\, 3228\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Retreat
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2026/09/Carer-Kafe-EOI-TORQUAY-4.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Carer Kafe":MAILTO:info@carerkafe.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270212T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270219T153000
DTSTAMP:20261013T235123Z
CREATED:20261013T233201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261013T235123Z
UID:10000279-1802424600-1803051000@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Strengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara's Journey) – Online\, 12 & 19 February
DESCRIPTION:Time: 9.30am-3.30pm \nDate: Friday 12 & Friday 19 February 2027 \nLocation: Online \nPresented by: VACCA \nStrengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara’s Journey) \nCARING FOR ABORIGINAL OR TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CHILDREN \nStrengthening Cultural Connections reflects a wide range of topics and information that non-Aboriginal carers need at an introductory level when caring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. \nPlease note these sessions are for carers only. Staff can register to attend ‘staff only’ sessions here. \nThere are four modules of learning: \nModule 1: Understanding Culture\nLearning objectives \n\nParticipants will be able to define what culture is\nParticipants will develop and explore their own culture\nParticipants will be able to explain the concepts of cultural disconnection and how it affects individuals and communities\n\nModule 2: History of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People\nLearning objectives \n\nParticipants will explore key elements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people before colonisation\nParticipants will develop an understanding of the timeline and key events of colonisation\nParticipants will explore the immediate impacts of colonisation\nParticipants will identify important government policies and legislation\n\nModule 3: It’s not all in the past- contemporary issues for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people\nLearning objectives \n\nLearners will develop a deeper understanding of the foundations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and knowledge systems\nLearners will develop an understanding of the long-term and ongoing impact of past experiences\, policies and legislation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families today.\nLearners will begin to identify practical ways of promoting cultural connections for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people\nLearners will be empowered to engage in and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events and activities as allies\n\nModule 4: Advocacy and your role as a carer\nLearning Objectives \n\nLearners will develop an understanding of the Child Protection system to empower them when advocating for the cultural needs of children and young people in their care.\nLearners will understand microaggressions\, privilege and discrimination and identify ways to advocate for children and young people who may experience discrimination\n\n  \nPlease note these sessions are for carers only. Staff can register to attend ‘staff only’ sessions here.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/strengthening-cultural-connections-replacing-nikaras-journey-online-12-19-feb/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/05/Strengthening-Cultural-Connections-Training-WebSlide-750x497px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270213T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270213T120000
DTSTAMP:20260812T002340Z
CREATED:20260807T073109Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T002340Z
UID:10000259-1802512800-1802520000@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder): Big Behaviours
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday\, 13 February 2027 \nTime: 10:00am -12:00pm \nLocation: Zoom online \nPresented by: NOFASD (National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders) \nAre you caring for a child or young person who is\, or you suspect is\, affected by FASD? \nThis session will provide carers with information and strategies for supporting children and young people living with FASD who display challenging behaviours\, including a focus on challenges that may arise during adolescence. \nThe National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (NOFASD) Australia is the oldest established FASD organisation in Australia. Founded and led by parents and carers for more than 20 years. NOFASD has been delivering workshops to community organisations for nearly 10 years. Feedback is consistently positive\, with over 95% of participants who completed this workshop stating that they would recommend it. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/fasd-fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorder-big-behaviours/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/01/6eb37813fe00f3da65e3d96ac14a8f25.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270218T183000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270218T200000
DTSTAMP:20260916T010702Z
CREATED:20260826T010532Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260916T010702Z
UID:10000265-1802975400-1802980800@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Services Australia – Grandparents Foster and Kinship Adviser Program\, February
DESCRIPTION:Date: Thursday 18 Feb 2027  \nTime: 6.30pm-8.00pm \nLocation: Zoom online \nJoin us for this session from Services Australia that will: \n\nIntroduce you to the Grandparents Foster and Kinship Advisor Program\nGive you valuable insight into what claims you can make and how to make them\nProvide you with information on who to contact for advice and assistance\nAnswer your general questions\n\nSpecialist information will be provided by Sandra – Grandparent\, Foster and Kinship Care Advisor. Sandra has been an active and registered foster carer for the past 34 years and loves this role and the opportunity to help her fellow carers. \nThe session is designed for kinship\, foster and permanent carers.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/services-australia-grandparents-foster-and-kinship-adviser-program-february/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/07/Foster-Care-Grandparents.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270306T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20270312T153000
DTSTAMP:20261013T234507Z
CREATED:20261013T233513Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261013T234507Z
UID:10000280-1804325400-1804865400@www.carerkafe.org.au
SUMMARY:Strengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara's Journey) – Online\, 6 & 12 March
DESCRIPTION:Time: 9.30am-3.30pm \nDate: Saturday 6 & Friday 12 March 2027 \nLocation: Online \nPresented by: VACCA \nStrengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara’s Journey) \nCARING FOR ABORIGINAL OR TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CHILDREN \nStrengthening Cultural Connections reflects a wide range of topics and information that non-Aboriginal carers need at an introductory level when caring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. \nPlease note these sessions are for carers only. Staff can register to attend ‘staff only’ sessions here. \nThere are four modules of learning: \nModule 1: Understanding Culture\nLearning objectives \n\nParticipants will be able to define what culture is\nParticipants will develop and explore their own culture\nParticipants will be able to explain the concepts of cultural disconnection and how it affects individuals and communities\n\nModule 2: History of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People\nLearning objectives \n\nParticipants will explore key elements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people before colonisation\nParticipants will develop an understanding of the timeline and key events of colonisation\nParticipants will explore the immediate impacts of colonisation\nParticipants will identify important government policies and legislation\n\nModule 3: It’s not all in the past- contemporary issues for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people\nLearning objectives \n\nLearners will develop a deeper understanding of the foundations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and knowledge systems\nLearners will develop an understanding of the long-term and ongoing impact of past experiences\, policies and legislation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families today.\nLearners will begin to identify practical ways of promoting cultural connections for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people\nLearners will be empowered to engage in and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events and activities as allies\n\nModule 4: Advocacy and your role as a carer\nLearning Objectives \n\nLearners will develop an understanding of the Child Protection system to empower them when advocating for the cultural needs of children and young people in their care.\nLearners will understand microaggressions\, privilege and discrimination and identify ways to advocate for children and young people who may experience discrimination\n\n  \nPlease note these sessions are for carers only. Staff can register to attend ‘staff only’ sessions here.
URL:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/event/strengthening-cultural-connections-replacing-nikaras-journey-online-6-12-march/
LOCATION:Online Zoom
CATEGORIES:Foster Care,Kinship,Permanent Care,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.carerkafe.org.au/app/uploads/2025/05/Strengthening-Cultural-Connections-Training-WebSlide-750x497px.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR