Across Australia, many young people, supported by Life Without Barriers, are celebrating a major milestone, finishing Year 12 and stepping proudly into their next chapter.
Image: A teenage girl wearing a black graduation cap and gown smiles at the camera.
Graduating from school is a milestone that deserves to be celebrated. It marks years of effort, determination and persistence through study, exams, friendships and personal growth.
For many of the young people we support, this moment also reflects the strength to overcome challenges and keep going when the path wasn’t always easy.
"Graduating from school is one of life’s great achievements," said Lorna Genoud, Life Without Barriers Education Consultant.
"It’s a moment of pride that belongs to each young person, a recognition of their hard work, commitment, and the belief that with self-determination, support and encouragement, anything is possible."
This year’s graduates have achieved remarkable things, each following their own path to success.
One student completed their studies while adjusting to a new community and learning to live more independently, showing courage and resilience through change. Another balanced school with part-time work, saving for their first car, and setting their sights on an apprenticeship. Others have discovered passions in health, education, trades or arts, and are looking forward to further study or travel before beginning their next adventure.
Each graduate’s story shows real perseverance, focus and determination. Finishing high school is a significant achievement, especially given the barriers many young people in care navigate.
Image: A group of teenage girls wearing blue graduation caps and gowns smile at the camera.
In Australia, just 57% of young people aged 18-25 who have been in out-of-home care in Australia complete Year 12 or its equivalent, compared with a national average of 85%. Of those who do complete Year 12, fewer than 9% go on to participate in higher education.
Lower completion rates, combined with barriers such as educational disruption, housing instability, mental-health trauma, low family support, and socio-economic disadvantage, all reduce the likelihood that young people from care will enter and complete university.
Research shows that young people are more likely to finish school when they have consistent encouragement and access to the right supports, whether through mentoring, tutoring, or a trusted adult who believes in them. Early targeted supports, transition programs, and university equity measures also play an important role in strengthening access to education and improving outcomes for young people in care.
At Life Without Barriers, we know that when young people are surrounded by stability, care and opportunity, they flourish.
"Our role is to walk alongside young people," said Lorna.
"We celebrate their achievements, but most importantly, we believe in their potential and their right to pursue whatever future they imagine for themselves."
Image: A teenage girl and boy wear black graduation caps and gowns and smile at each other.
As these graduates close one chapter and open another, their stories are filled with possibility. Some are pursuing further study or training, others are stepping into work, and many are still exploring what comes next.
Whatever their path, they take with them the lessons of persistence, the strength built through challenge, and the knowledge that they are capable of achieving great things.
To every young person who crossed the stage this year, congratulations! Your hard work, courage and determination inspire us all. We can’t wait to see where your journey leads next.
Our commitment to education
A successful education journey is essential for a positive future. However, many children and young people growing up in out-of-home care are at risk of not achieving their educational potential as they are often impacted by complex histories and trauma.
As a major provider of out-of-home care (OOHC) for children and young people in Australia, Life Without Barriers recognises that we play an important role – not only are we responsible for ensuring children and young people have the best start in life, but also to support them reach their learning goals and full potential.
Our Education Strategy 'Learning Without Barriers' outlines our commitment to working together to ensure our education systems are inclusive.
