Media release – Connecting Foster and Kinship Carers South Australia appoints new CEO

20 March 2026

Media release: Connecting Foster and Kinship Carers South Australia appoints new CEO

After a merit based recruitment process, the Board of Connecting Foster and Kinship Carers South Australia (CFKCSA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Russell Hooper as its new Chief Executive Officer.

“We are delighted that a candidate with Russell’s experience and dedication is joining Connecting Foster and Kinship Carers SA,” said Nancy Penna, Chair of CFKCSA. “Russell joins at a pivotal time as foster and kinship carers and organisations prepare for the commencement of new legislation which affirms carers’ rights.”

Russell Hooper brings over 15 years’ experience in family and social services policy across the public and not-for-profit sectors. He has an extensive history of driving systemic reform for vulnerable families, children and young people.

Mr Hooper’s previous roles include interim CEO of the Office of the Victims of Crime Commissioner (Victoria), senior state and federal government positions, and Head of Advocacy at national peak body, No to Violence. He has a long-standing commitment to the sector, having previously volunteered as a mentor for young people exiting residential care. Since moving to South Australia in June 2025, he has continued his community involvement as a volunteer with Backpacks 4 SA Kids.

“Foster and kinship carers are essential to improving outcomes for children. They make the selfless decision to provide safe, loving homes and stability for vulnerable kids – they truly represent the best of our society,” said newly appointed CEO, Russell Hooper. “But to do the best for these children and young people, carers also need support.”

“I look forward to developing strong relationships with our community of foster and kinship carers, the Carer Council, the broader sector and the government. I am also honoured to build on the excellent work of the team, including interim CEO and Senior Advocate Sharee Borlace and former CEO Fiona Endacott.”

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About CFKCSA

Connecting Foster & Kinship Carers – SA Inc (CFKCSA) is the independent peak representative body for foster and kinship carers across South Australia. Our vision is to see the collective voice of carers represented and their rights upheld as they provide essential care to children and young people.

Through strategic partnerships with government departments, service providers, and parliamentarians, we provide high-quality information and support to the SA carer community through our four organisational pillars:

  • Inform: Providing first-class information and education to enrich the caring experience.
  • Support: Offering foster and kinship carers opportunities to discuss issues and access services that improve their caring journey.
  • Connect: Building a positive, inclusive community for all South Australian foster and kinship carers.
  • Advocate: Ensuring foster and kinship carer voices are heard in matters that impact the children and young people in their care.

Media enquiries: For media enquiries please contact Russell Hooper at ceo@cfc-sa.org.au or
0447 422 328 or 1800 732 272.