Presenters: Charlotte Cain – Operations Manager. Jodie Plug – Foster Carer. Meaghan Heath – Foster Carer. Abstract: This presentation focuses on the process of establishing and running a Carer Consultative Committee (CCC). The CCC provides foster carers with an opportunity to discuss and provide input into policies, and provide feedback on service provision. Foster carers often report feeling marginalised and powerless in a system which undervalues their opinion and input. To give carers input into program design and improvement ensures that their stake in the sector is beyond the valuable work they do in caring for children. Their opinion is valued and considered important in running the foster care service. The Wanslea CCC was established in 2012 as a way for foster carers to have more direct input into policy, procedure and planning for Wanslea Foster Care. The first committee came together in November 2012 and met on a monthly basis initially, alternating between evening and day time meetings. The CCC is a joint foster carer / staff committee which comprises no less than six and no more than eight registered Wanslea foster carers. The term for each CCC is for 12 months. The agenda is determined by the group, although there are standing items; for example recruitment and retention, and carer feedback. The philosophy of service user participation in decision making has driven the continuation of the CCC. Wanslea Foster Care is committed to continue to champion initiatives that work towards service improvement and innovation.