I catch up with Lisa to unpack the election commitments sent to candidates and many aspects of Child Protection in South Australia

Lisa O’Malley has spent nearly 20 years volunteering at the front line of child protection in South Australia. Entirely unpaid and independent, she has become a trusted advocate for volunteer foster and kinship carers, children in care, and families navigating complex systems, driven by lived experience and a deep sense of responsibility to children.

Lisa has supported more than 200 care situations, always reminding people that children are not “placements,” but individuals who deserve safety, dignity, stability, and love. She regularly assists carers supporting children with highly complex needs, including disability, medical fragility, and palliative care, often stepping in when no other advocate is available.

Her work involves guiding carers through government departments, health systems, courts, and services, cutting through bureaucracy so children aren’t left behind. Beyond individual advocacy, Lisa has played a significant voluntary role in shaping policy and reform, contributing to inquiries, consultations, parliamentary processes, and legislative change. As co-founder of The Carer Project, she helped drive an independent inquiry into foster and kinship care that led to real reform.

Across the sector, carers, NGOs, and even government staff often say, “Call Lisa,” reflecting the trust and credibility she’s built. Her independence allows her to advocate fearlessly and always in the best interests of children.

Lisa is also a natural leader, respected for her integrity, courage, and ability to bring people together across political and organisational divides. Known for saying she is always “Team Kid,” she continues to mentor carers, advise policymakers, and represent vulnerable children, including through her role on the SA Dental Consumer Advisory Panel.

Quietly and consistently, Lisa O’Malley has built a village around children in care, strengthening families, empowering carers, and ensuring that the most vulnerable children are seen, heard, and protected.

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