Liberal Member for Hammond, Adrian Pederick, can confirm after much anticipation, that the Statutes Amendment (Rights of Foster Parents and Guardians) Bill 2015 (Finn’s Law) is expected to pass through the House of Assembly.

In collaboration with the State Government, it is envisaged that Finn’s Law will pass through the House of Assembly tomorrow morning at 10:30am.

“It has been 19 months since Finn tragically passed away, and through dedication, persistence and hard work Finn’s Law will be passed in the House of Assembly before proceeding to the Legislative Council,” said Mr Pederick.

“I give many thanks to Monica Perrett and to all those who have assisted whether it be in a minor or major aspect,

“I also commend those who dedicate and open their homes to foster children, they nurture them, offer them warmth, security and provide a loving family home, something I believe every child deserves.”

“Finn’s Law is a truly significant piece of legislation as it differs from anything previously constituted,

“Many States in Australia and the World cease the rights of foster parents once their foster child is deceased and all decisions immediately return to the biological parent.”

“The Statutes Amendment (Rights of Foster Parents and Guardians) Bill 2015 now has the potential to alter foster parent’s rights in relation to their foster child.”

“Through the implementation of this Bill and the use of the ‘Other Person Guardian’ (OPG) arrangement, significant carers will be enabled rights and may be noted on the death certificate in the unfortunate event of the death of a foster child whilst in their care,

“Along with the potential death certificate listings, this bill also provides a mechanism to negotiate funeral arrangements between biological parents and foster parents if it is required.”

“It’s been a long road but I can now look forward to seeing Finn’s Law benefit existing and future carers in the years to come.”