A brighter future for three sisters

February 10, 2026

“A family was referred to us by the Education Child Wellbeing Unit, who had concerns about three sisters living alone while attending a local high school,” says Sue, Specialist Lead for the Family Connect & Support (FCS) program. “Their parents had separated, and the father, who had custody, moved overseas and started a new family. He was unable to support his children properly in Australia and had no plans to return.”

For many Year 12 students, the end of their HSC exams marks the start of a carefree time – filled with lazy summer days, impromptu outings, and celebrations with friends. But for Kristen, that freedom was a distant thought. While her peers were preparing for a well earned break, Kristen was balancing the stress of her own exams with the responsibility of caring for her two younger sisters, aged 14 and 12. With their father living overseas and providing minimal support, Kristen had become the anchor of their household, managing everything from schoolwork to household chores, and quietly carrying the burden of keeping her family together. 

Despite these challenges, Kristen was determined to care for her sisters, and she did so admirably. “Their school attendance was strong, and they were always well presented,” Sue notes. However, the reality of an 18 year old carrying such a heavy responsibility was unsustainable. The situation became even more concerning when Kristen’s younger sister, Clare, revealed a history of self-harm, highlighting the fragility of their circumstances.

With no financial support coming in, the girls were often arriving at school without lunch, concerned about the cost. “When we reached out to the school, they weren’t aware that the girls weren’t bringing lunch,” says Sue. Our team quickly sprang into action. They worked with school staff to ensure the girls received not only lunch but also uniforms, textbooks, and help with any other school related expenses. Counselling services were also arranged for all three girls, providing them with much needed emotional support.

To further relieve their burden, FCS began delivering weekly supplies of frozen meals, ensuring the girls had nutritious food each week. They also provided financial assistance in the form of grocery vouchers and new clothing. Additionally, toiletry bags and clothes donated by the community were given to the girls. These contributions offered practical help and a much needed sense of relief, showing the girls that support was available when they needed it most.

Recognising the need for long-term financial security, FCS referred the family to financial counselling and arranged appointments with Centrelink to assess their eligibility for government benefits. After persistent advocacy, the appropriate financial assistance was secured, giving the girls a level of financial stability that had previously been out of reach.

Understanding that the sisters would need ongoing support as they moved forward, FCS also arranged for each of the two older girls to be paired with a youth worker. This would provide them with consistent guidance as they transitioned into adulthood. Throughout the process, FCS remained committed, conducting regular home visits and offering support whenever needed. “We were always available to take calls and offer help wherever we could,” says Sue.

Kristen, once burdened by the responsibility of caring for her sisters, has now successfully started university this year, realising her dream of higher education. Meanwhile, her younger sisters are thriving at school, supported not only by the services provided but also by the strong, unbreakable bond they share at home. Together, they have shown remarkable resilience, proving that with comprehensive, wraparound services, even the toughest situations can lead to new possibilities and brighter futures.