Jillian Wain Award 

Congratulations to Don Lee, this year’s winner of the Jillian Wain Award.

Don Lee has been a dedicated foster carer for 19 years. Since becoming accredited in 2005, Don has provided unwavering support and care to countless children, with a special focus on helping teens at risk of entering residential care. Providing stability and support as young people transition into adulthood, this carer’s commitment often sees them providing a home for young people well after they turn 18 and exit from state care. 

Don has been known for driving his young person over two hours each way to holiday camp, every school holiday and always offers any spare seats in his car to other children attending the same camp knowing this is a big help to other carers.

He has consistently shown that he goes above and beyond for the young person in his care, making sure he remains connected to his other siblings and even completed the ‘Tuning into Teens’ program in 2021 to ensure he was providing the best outcome for his young person.

He is a staunch foster care advocate within their local community, connecting with local councils, MPs, and state government to champion the needs of foster carers and young people alike.

Don is not only an advocate for children and young people but this year’s award recipient also works tirelessly to improve the experiences of carers as an active participant in the Carer Consultation Group.

Thank you Don, for all the amazing work you have done and knowingly will, continue to do!