While the importance of foster care is well understood, how that care is provided can make all the difference. The MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model offers a fresh, community-centred approach that stands out from traditional foster care—and it’s making a real impact in Victoria.
So, what exactly makes this model different? It’s not just the structure – it’s the relationships, the support, and the sense of belonging that define it.
A community instead of a household
Most foster care arrangements focus on individual households. While each carer plays a vital role, they often do so in isolation. The MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model shifts that focus. Instead of a single home supporting a child or sibling group, the model brings together a network of foster and kinship care homes called a Constellation.
Each Constellation is supported by a Hub Home—an experienced carer who offers practical help, mentoring and respite care to the other households. This network creates a sense of extended family—a micro-community—where children, carers and families are connected and supported through regular contact.
This change from isolation to community is at the heart of what makes the model different.
Familiarity that builds trust
In many care systems, respite care or crisis placements may involve unfamiliar carers. This can add stress for children and young people, especially those who have experienced trauma or multiple moves.
In the MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model, all members of a Constellation know one another. Children build relationships not only with their primary carers, but also with the Hub Home and other families. So, when respite care is needed, it feels more like staying with an aunt, uncle or family friend—someone trusted, safe and familiar.
This level of connection strengthens emotional safety and can prevent unnecessary disruptions to care.
Real-time support for carers
Carers often report feeling overwhelmed or unsure when navigating challenges. Traditional systems may involve long waits for guidance or minimal support during difficult times.
The MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model offers real-time, peer-led support. Carers have direct access to the Hub Home carer, who understands their experience and can provide advice, reassurance or hands-on help when needed. Monthly Constellation meetings also allow carers to share insights, celebrate milestones, and build confidence together.
By supporting carers consistently and practically, the model helps them feel more prepared and more likely to continue in their caring role.
Children who feel they belong
A common challenge in foster care is helping children feel like they truly belong. In a Constellation, children and young people are surrounded by the same faces every month. They take part in shared meals, outings, and celebrations. These familiar routines and relationships help create a sense of safety and identity.
Importantly, children also benefit from peer relationships. Being able to connect with other children in care who understand their experience can reduce feelings of isolation and build lasting friendships.
Belonging is more than being placed in a home—it’s feeling valued within a community. That’s what the MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model offers.
A proactive, not reactive, model
Traditional foster care systems often respond to challenges after they arise. But the MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model is proactive by design. It creates strong relationships early, making it easier to manage issues before they escalate.
By encouraging ongoing communication, shared responsibility and collaboration, the model helps prevent placement breakdowns, reduce stress for carers, and ensure children receive consistent care.
A model that’s backed by evidence
What also sets the MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model apart is its growing base of evidence. The model was first developed by The Mockingbird Society in the United States and has since been implemented in multiple regions around the world, including here in Victoria.
Research has shown that it improves placement stability, enhances carer retention, and contributes to better wellbeing for children and young people. These outcomes speak to the strength of its relationship-based structure.
At Anglicare Victoria, we are proud to be part of this global movement. The MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model isn’t just a new way of organising care—it’s a new way of thinking about care. It centres on relationships, builds resilience through connection, and makes sure no one feels alone in their caring journey.
Whether you’re a current carer, a prospective one, or simply someone who wants to learn more about how we support children and families, the MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ Model offers a hopeful and inclusive vision for foster care in Victoria. Get in touch on 1800 809 722.
