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Make a referral
Information for Department of Communities caseworkers and partner agencies on referring a young person to HCS.
How it works
A clear, responsive referral pathway
We know a placement is often needed quickly. Our intake team is ready to respond, assess and match, so you can focus on the young person.
Contact our intake team
Call or email our intake team with the young person’s details and the type of placement required. We are contactable 24/7 for urgent and emergency referrals.
Assessment & matching
We review the referral, assess suitability, and identify the placement and care team best suited to the young person’s needs and location.
Placement offer & transition
We confirm the placement, agree the transition plan with you, and prepare the home and care team ahead of the young person’s arrival.
Ongoing care & reporting
Once placed, the young person is supported by a consistent care team, with regular communication and reporting back to the Department.
Before you refer
What supports a quick response
Having the following information ready allows us to assess and match a placement as fast as possible.
- The young person’s age, gender and current location
- Type and urgency of placement required
- Relevant background, risk and behavioural information
- Cultural background and any cultural support needs
- Health, education and any specialist support needs
- The referring caseworker and district contact details
Ready to refer, or want to talk it through?
Contact our intake team
Call 1300 905 166 or send us the young person’s details and we’ll respond promptly. For urgent and after-hours referrals, our on-call support is available 24/7.