I would like to extend a warm welcome to all delegates to this year’s Festival of Learning. The focus of this year’s Festival of Learning, out-of-home-care, is very timely. The State Government is currently undertaking a range of important and significant reforms in this area. The government is committed to providing children in its care with stable nurturing homes that will enable them to have the best possible life outcomes. The conference program promises a range of innovative and insightful local and international presentations. I encourage all delegates to learn together and share their experiences as they prepare for the coming reforms within the area of out of-home care. The partnership between the State Government and the community services sector is critical as we collaborate on how best to care for our most vulnerable children. May I take this opportunity to thank each of you for your committed work in the area of child protection. Hon Helen Morton Minister for Child Protection