The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

1.1.A.80 Approved care organisation (ACO)

Definition

An ACO is an organisation that:

  • co-ordinates or provides residential care services to young people in Australia (1.1.A.120), and
  • is approved as an ACO by the Secretary.

Examples:

  • Agencies which:

    • assist homeless youth
    • care for children with intellectual or physical disabilities
    • accommodate young refugees in order to help them adjust to Australian society.
  • Adoption and foster care agencies that arrange pre-adoptive foster care.
  • Public hospitals providing long term or permanent care for young people with a disability.

The Secretary may revoke an approval previously given to an organisation.

Act reference: FAAct section 20 Approval of organisations providing residential care services to young people

Policy reference: FA Guide 2.3 FTB eligibility for approved care organisations (ACOs)

Last reviewed: