Elizabeth Fernandez

Professor

Elizabeth Fernandez is a Professor of Social Work at the School of Social Sciences, at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, UNSW. She is the Postgraduate Research Coordinator of the School (2010 to mid-2011).

Elizabeth's teaching and research for over two decades are in the areas of child abuse, trauma, family violence, care and protection and field-based learning and supervision. Her areas of specialisation include research into practice with children and families, child and youth wellbeing, vulnerable families, early intervention, care and protection, risk assessment, children and legal intervention, foster care and adoption, social inclusion and minority groups, child and adolescent mental health, life course theory and research.

Elizabeth has conducted research in collaboration with Government departments and non-government organisations to inform social policies and program development. She has also collaborated with Barnardos Australia in the research and implementation of the Looking After Children (LAC) framework in Australian child welfare through the LAC Project (www.lacproject.org), and the implementation of the UK Framework for The Assessment of Families of Children in Need (www.SCARF.org.au). As a founding member of the International Association for Outcome-Based Evaluation in Family and Children's Services, she shares an interest in cross-national outcome research.

Elizabeth has published widely in national and international journals on child abuse, prevention and family support, out of home care, child wellbeing and field-based learning in social work education. Her most recent book is an edited volume How Does Foster Care Work? International Evidence on Outcomes (Fernandez, E. and Barth, R., 2010, London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers). She also serves on the Editorial Boards of Child and Family Social Work (UK), Children and Youth Services Review (US) and Children Australia. She is a Board Member of the International Society for Child Indicators and Founding Member of the International Association for Outcomes Based Evaluation and Research on Family and Children's Services.

Research Areas

Practice with children and families, child and youth wellbeing, vulnerable families, early intervention, care and protection, risk assessment, children and legal intervention, foster care and adoption, social inclusion and minority groups, child and adolescent mental health, life course theory and research

Past and Current Research Projects

A ten year longitudinal study of children in care which is supported by two projects:

Looking after children: Pathways in substitute care
An ARC Linkage Grant, 1998-2001, chief investigator – Researched outcomes in domains of attachment, health, emotional and behavioural development and education through an 8 year longitudinal follow up of children in out of home care. Involved simultaneous adaptation and implementation of the UK Looking After Children case management system in Barnardos out of homes care programs and establishment of the LAC Project as a joint venture of the School of Social Work and Barnardos Australia, www.lacproject.org

Care matters: Capturing outcomes for children in foster care
An ARC Linkage Grant, 2009-2011, chief investigator – Analysed children’s experiences and outcomes of placement in foster care through an innovative multi-dimensional view of children’s, foster parents’, and caseworkers’ perspectives. Generated significant knowledge about children’s attachment to new families; measured outcomes of foster care in a multifaceted way, and identified policy implications of responding effectively to children in need of stable family environments to achieve healthy developmental outcomes and to their foster carers.

Projects focusing on early intervention, prevention and reunification:

Taking child abuse seriously: Implications for strengthening families
An ARC Linkage Grant,  2001-2005, chief investigator – a study of the impact of family based services on vulnerable families and children through an 18 month follow up of 60 families and implementation of a framework for the assessment of families of children in need in Barnardos Integrated Family Support Programs Outcomes of the research are extended through the SCARF Project, www.SCARF.org.au.

Pathways to permanency: A study of foster care reunification outcomes
An ARC Linkage Grant, 2005-2007, chief investigator – Researched the process, outcomes and potential of reunification decision-making involving children in need of temporary foster care. In a three year follow up study of three family reunification programs, this collaborative research undertook a systematic analysis of the process and circumstances in which family reunification is likely to lead to safety and positive outcomes for children, and those in which alternative permanent care plans were indicated. This project generated evidence-based knowledge about reunification decision-making and identified policy implications of responding effectively to children in need of temporary foster care.

A national comparative analysis of child, family and service factors contributing to successful and unsuccessful reunification outcomes in out of home care
An ARC Linkage Grant, 2009-2011, joint chief investigator with P. Delfabbro (Adelaide University). This project will inform decision-making relating to the safe return of children to their families from protective care. Insights will be obtained into the multiple factors that contribute to successful reunification and post reunification outcomes. The study will help to identify children most at risk of remaining in care (e.g. indigenous children), review structural decision-making tools or specialist services to assist children to return home, and provide a nationally tested methodology for studying, recording, and measuring reunification processes and outcomes.

Challenges, possibilities and future directions: A national assessment of Australia's Children's Courts’
An ARC Discovery Grant, 2009-2010, joint chief investigator with A. Borowski and R.J. Sheehan (La Trobe University). Children's Courts occupy a unique position in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems in responding to often marginalized delinquent youth and vulnerable children and families. Philosophical and structural shifts in Australia and overseas suggest community and legal system responses are often ineffective and contribute to longer term problems, creating social challenges for governments and communities alike. This national study examines how key stakeholders, including, significantly, judicial officers, view the Children's Court's contemporary responses and challenges, their preferred alternatives responses and the viability of suggested reforms, thus offering a unique contribution to informing legal and social policy change.

A national comparative analysis of child, family and service factors contributing to successful and unsuccessful reunification outcomes in out‑of‑home care, ARC Linkage (CIs: Delfabbro; Fernandez; and Kettler), 2009-2012. This study aims to elicit insights into the multiple factors that contribute to successful reunification and post reunification outcomes. The study aims to identify children most at risk of remaining in care, decision making tools and specialist services to assist children return home and develop a methodology for documenting and measuring reunification processes and outcomes.

Forgotten Australians: Identifying long term outcomes for people who lived in institutional and other forms of out of home care, ARC Linkage (CIs: Fernandez and Lee), 2013-2016. This research aims to explore life experiences of ‘care leavers’ who have lived in institutions (such as children’s homes and orphanages) or other forms of out of home care as children. The specific aims of the current project are to: 1) Explore patterns of older ‘care leavers’ experiences and life trajectories in care and post care; 2) Identify their current unmet needs and ways to support them; 3) Identify factors in their past or present experiences that are protective or accentuate risks; 4) Assess ways in which support from professionals, families and friends help them to achieve positive outcomes; 5) Apply learnings to contemporary out of home care and after care to enhance favourable life outcomes and transition services for care alumni.

    PUBLICATIONS
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    Books
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    Fernandez EA, 2012, Accomplishing Permanency: Reunification Pathways and Outcomes for Foster Children, 1st edition, Springer, New York, http://www.springer.com/series/10150;%20http://www.amazon.com/Accomplishing-Permanency-Reunification-SpringerBriefs-Well-Being/dp/9400750919/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1353302390&sr=8-2&keywords=Accomplis
    2012
    Fernandez EA, 1996, Significant harm: unravelling child protection decisions and substitute care careers of children, Original, Avebury Ashgate Publishing Ltd., Aldershot, England
    1996
    Book Chapters
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    Fernandez E, 2020, 'Assessment in Child Protection', in Fernandez E; Delfabbro P (ed.), Child Protection and the Care Continuum: Theoretical and Empirical Insights, London and New York, pp. 96 - 122
    2020
    Fernandez E; Thorpe R, 2020, 'Engaging first mothers, fathers and grandparents in the care continuum', in Fernandez E; Delfabbro P (ed.), Child Protection and the Care Continuum: Theoretical and Empirical Insights., pp. 300 - 317
    2020
    Fernandez E; Delfabbro P, 2020, 'Policy and trends in child welfare in Australia and in the global context', in Fernandez E; Delfabbro P (ed.), Child Protection and the Care Continuum: Theoretical and Empirical Insights, Routledge Taylor & Francis Group, London and New York, pp. 3 - 27
    2020
    Fernandez E; Delfabbro P, 2020, 'Theoretical and value frameworks underpinning work with children and families', in Fernandez E; Delfabbro P (ed.), Child Protection and the Care Continuum: Theoretical and Empirical Insights., pp. 27 - 51
    2020
    Fernandez E; Delfabbro P, 2020, 'Reunification in out-of-home care', in Fernandez E; Delfabbro P (ed.), Child Protection and the Care Continuum: Theoretical and Empirical Insights, Routledge Taylor & Francis Group, London and New York, pp. 223 - 240
    2020
    Fernandez E; Lee J-S; Mcnamara P, 2020, 'Lived experience of Australian Indigenous adult care leavers : Narratives of trauma, resilience, and survival,', in Kufeldt K; McKenzie B (ed.), Connecting Research, Policy and Practice Child Welfare
    2020
    McNamara P; Fernandez E, 2019, 'Seizing the moment: Are we optimising the primary years' learning for children in care', in Arieh AB (ed.), Education in Out-of-Home Care International Perspectives on Policy, Practice and Research, Springer Nature, Switzerland Cham, pp. 135 - 150, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-26372-0_10
    2019
    Lee J-S; Fernandez E, 2019, 'Critical multicultural practice with ethnic minority children and their families', in Nipperess S; Williams C (ed.), Critical Multicultural Practice in Social Work: New perspectives and practices, Allen & Unwin, Australia, pp. 240 - 256, https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/books/academic-professional/social-work/Critical-Multicultural-Practice-in-Social-Work-Edited-by-Sharlene-Nipperess-and-Charlotte-Williams-9781760297831
    2019
    Fernandez E; Lee JS, 2017, 'Experiences and Outcomes of Adults Who Endured Maltreatment as Children in Care in Australia in the Twentieth Century', in Rus A; Parris S; Stativa E (ed.), Child Maltreatment in Residential Care : History, Research, and Current Practice, Springer, pp. 419 - 460, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-57990-0_20
    2017
    View publication
    Fernandez EA, 2016, 'Case management in child protection: Challenges, complexities and possibilities', in Moore E (ed.), Case management Inclusive Community Practice, Oxford University Press, http://www.oup.com.au/titles/higher_ed/social_science/social_work/9780195562149
    2016
    Fernandez EA, 2016, 'Childhood in the context of the lifespan', in Encyclopaedia on Early Childhood Education, Springer Science+Science Media, Dordrecht, https://au.sagepub.com/en-gb/oce/node/60359/download-pdf
    2016
    Fernandez EA; Ramia I, 2015, 'Child Poverty in the International Context', in Fernandez E; Zeira A; Vecchiato T; Canali C (ed.), Theoretical and Empirical Insights into Child and Family Poverty, edn. Childrens Well-Being Indicators and Research, Springer International Publishing, New York, pp. 11 - 40, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-17506-5_2
    2015
    Fernandez EA, 2015, 'Understanding Child and Family Poverty: An Introduction to Some Key Themes ans Issues', in Fernandez E; Zeira A; Vecchiato T; Canali C (ed.), Theoretical and Empirical Insights into Child and Family Poverty: Cross national Perspectives, edn. Childrens Well-Being Indicators and Research, Springer International Publishing, pp. 1 - 10, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-17506-5_1
    2015
    Fernandez EA; Wearing M; Fernandez E, 2015, 'Why Are Poor Children Always With Us? Theory, Ideology and Policy for Understanding Child Poverty', in Fernandez E; Zeira A; Vecchiato T; Canali C (ed.), Theoretical and Empirical Insights into Child and Family Poverty, edn. Childrens Well-Being Indicators and Research, Springer International Publishing, New York, pp. 71 - 96, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-17506-5_5
    2015
    Fernandez EA; Zeira A; Vecchiato T; Canali C, 2015, 'Reducing Poverty and Investing in Children and Families', in Fernandez E; Zeira A; Vecchiato T; Canali C (ed.), Theoretical and Empirical Insights into Child and Family Poverty, edn. Childrens Well-Being Indicators and Research, Springer International Publishing, New York, pp. 303 - 311, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-17506-5_19
    2015
    Ramia I; Fernandez E, 2015, 'Child Poverty in the International Context', in Theoretical and Empirical Insights into Child and Family Poverty Cross National Perspectives, Springer, pp. 11 - 35
    2015
    Fernandez E; Bolitho J; Hansen P, 2013, 'The Children's Court in New South Wales', in Sheehan R; Borowski A (ed.), Australia's Children's Courts Today and Tomorrow, edn. 1st, Springer Verlag, Dordecht, http://www.springer.com/law/international/book/978-94-007-5927-5
    2013
    Fernandez EA, 2013, 'Early childhood: dimensions and contexts of development and well-being', in Ben Arieh A; Casas F; Frones I; Korbin JE (ed.), Handbook of child well-being, Springer, Dordecht, pp. 1629 - 1648, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-9063-8_65
    2013
    Cheers D; Fernandez EA; Morwitzer J; Tregeagle S, 2011, 'Guided Practice in Australia: Research, Information, and Child and Family Perspectives on 'Looking After Children' and the Assessment Framework', in McKenzie B; Kufeldt K (ed.), Connecting Research, Policy, and Practice Child Welfare, Wolfrid Laurier University Press, Ontario, pp. 487 - 500, http://www.wlu.ca/press/Catalog/kufeldt-2.shtml
    2011
    Fernandez EA; Barth R, 2010, 'A Synthesis of Research Findings and Direction for Policy, Practice, and Research in Social Care’', in Fernandez E; Barth R (ed.), How Does Foster Care Work? International Evidence on Outcomes., edn. First, Jessica Kingsley Publishers, London, pp. 298 - 305
    2010
    Fernandez EA; Barth R, 2010, 'Reviewing International Evidence to Inform Foster Care Policy and Practice', in Fernandez E; Barth R (ed.), How Does Foster Care Work? International Evidence on Outcomes., edn. First, Jessica Kingsley Publishers, London, pp. 20 - 28
    2010
    Fernandez EA; Delfabbro P, 2010, 'Reunification in Australia: Insights from South Australia and New South Wales', in Fernandez E; Barth R (ed.), How Does Foster Care Work? International Evidence on Outcomes., edn. First, Jessica Kingsley Publishers, London, pp. 111 - 130
    2010
    Fernandez EA, 2010, 'Growing Up in Care: An Australian Longitudinal Study of Outcomes', in Fernandez E; Barth R (ed.), How Does Foster Care Work? International Evidence on Outcomes., edn. First, Jessica Kingsley Publishers, London, pp. 275 - 295
    2010
    Fernandez EA, 2009, 'Grandir en famille d’accueil: points de vue des enfants accuellis et des familles d’accueil', in Tillard B; Rurka A; Durning P (ed.), Du placement a la suppleance familiale: actualite des recherches internationnales, edn. 1, L’Harmattan, Paris, pp. 59 - 74
    2009
    Fernandez EA, 2007, 'Identifying Sensitive Outcomes of Intervention in Community Based Centres', in Berry M (ed.), Identifying Essential Elements of Chnage: Lessons from International Research in Community Based Family Centres, edn. 1st, Acco Leuven/Vooburg, Belgium, pp. 9 - 19
    2007
    Fernandez EA; Healy JP, 2007, 'Supporting children and responding to families: Steps on the way to family change', in Berry M (ed.), Identifying Essential Elements of Chnage: Lessons from International Research in Community Based Family Centres, edn. 1st, Acco Leuven/Vooburg, Belgium, pp. 35 - 50
    2007
    Fernandez EA, 2006, 'Growing Up in care: Resilience and care outcomes', in Promoting Resilience in Child Welfare, edn. 1st, Ottawa Press, Canada, pp. 131 - 156
    2006
    Fernandez EA, 2005, 'Growing up in care: Resilience and care outcomes', in Promoting Resilience in Child Welfare, edn. 1st, Ottawa Press, Canada, pp. 131 - 156
    2005
    Fernandez EA, 2005, 'The Challenge of Child Protection', in Alston M; McKinnon J (ed.), Social Work Fields of Practice (2nd Ed), edn. 2nd, Oxford, Melbourne, pp. 176 - 193
    2005
    Fernandez EA, 2002, 'Protecting Children Through Family Support Services', in Vecchiato ; Maluccio ; Canali (ed.), Client and Programme Perspectives on Outcome Evaluation, edn. Original, Aldine de Gruyter, New York, pp. 134 - 149
    2002
    Fernandez EA, 2001, 'Child Maltreatment and Child Protection', in Alston M; McKinnon J (ed.), Social Work Fields of Practice, edn. Original, Oxford University Press, Melbourne, pp. 168 - 190
    2001
    Conference Papers
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    Fernandez EA, 2017, 'Children in poverty: Trends, consequences and responses', in Children in a world of opportunities: Innovations in research, policy and practice 6th Conference of the International Society for Child Indicators, McGill University, Montreal Quebec Canada, pp. 109 - 109, presented at Children in a world of opportunities: Innovations in research, policy and practice 6th Conference of the International Society for Child Indicators, Montreal Quebec Canada, 28 June 2017 - 30 June 2017
    2017
    Fernandez EA, 2017, 'Research Impact and family and Children's Services', in Evidence deriving from outcome and impact evaluation, Emanuela Zancan Fondazione, Hong Kong Chinese University of Hong Kong, presented at International Association for Outcome based Evaluation and Research Seminar, Hong Kong Chinese University of Hong Kong, 05 September 2017 - 06 September 2017
    2017
    Fernandez EA, 2017, 'The lived experience and long-term outcomes of adults who have experienced physical, emotional and sexual abuse and neglect as children in care', in New Perspectives for Outcome-based Evaluation and Research on Family and Children’s Services, New Perspectives for Outcome-Based Evaluation and Research on Family and Children's Services, New Perspectives for Outcome-Based Evaluation and Research on Family and Children's Services, pp. 53 - 58, presented at New Perspectives for Outcome-Based Evaluation and Research on Family and Children's Services, New Perspectives for Outcome-Based Evaluation and Research on Family and Children's Services, 07 September 2017 - 08 September 2017, https://shop.fondazionezancan.it/product/new-perspectives-for-outcome-based-evaluation-and-research-on-family-and-childrens-services/
    2017
    Fernandez EA; Lee JS, 2017, 'Responding to the wellbeing of children in care and adult care leavers', in Children in a world of opportunities: Innovations in research, policy and practice, McGill University, Montreal Quebec Canada, pp. 59 - 59, presented at Children in a world of opportunities: Innovations in research, policy and practice 6th Conference of the Internatioanl Society for Child Indicators, Montreal Quebec Canada, 28 June 2017 - 30 June 2017
    2017
    Fernandez EA, 2017, 'Responding to Families: A Focus on Public Policies for Vulnerable Families', in International Conference on "New Perspectives for Outcome-based Evaluation and Research on Family and Children's Services, International Conference on "New Perspectives for Outcome-based Evaluation and Research on Family and Children's Services, Hong Kong, pp. 99 - 103, presented at International Conference on "New Perspectives for Outcome-based Evaluation and Research on Family and Children's Services, Hong Kong, 07 September 2017 - 08 September 2017
    2017
    Fernandez EA, 2013, 'Children and poverty: A contemporary thought on measurement, indicators and impacts', in Children and poverty: A contemporary thought on measurement, indicators and impacts, Children and poverty: a review of contemporary thought on measurement, indicators and impacts, 12th iaOBERfcs Annual International Seminar of the International Association for Outcome Research in Fam, Hebrew University Jerusalem Israel, presented at Children and poverty: a review of contemporary thought on measurement, indicators and impacts, 12th iaOBERfcs Annual International Seminar of the International Association for Outcome Research in Family and Children¿s Services, Outcomes of Children Living in Poverty, Hebrew University Jerusalem Israel, 24 June 2013 - 27 June 2013
    2013
    Fernandez EA, 2013, 'Children between families: Accomplishing reunification for children in care, 4th International Society for child indicators', in Children between families: Accomplishing reunification for children in care, 4th International Society for child indicators, The 4th International Society for Child Indicators (ISCI) Conference: Child Indicators in a Globalized World: Implications for Research Practice and Policy, Seoul, Korea, presented at The 4th International Society for Child Indicators (ISCI) Conference: Child Indicators in a Globalized World: Implications for Research Practice and Policy, Seoul, Korea, 29 May 2013 - 31 May 2013, http://isci.chapinhall.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/P2_Fernandez.pdf
    2013
    Fernandez EA, 2012, 'Inter-jurisdictional similarities and variations in the nature and predictors of reunification in Australian out of home care', in Inter-jurisdictional similarities and variations in the nature and predictors of reunification in Australian out of home care, Children's Rights: What's Right for Children?, Sydney, presented at Children's Rights: What's Right for Children?, Sydney, 20 August 2012 - 22 August 2012
    2012
    Fernandez EA, 2012, 'Work integrated learning: Innovations in training field teachers to enhance outcomes for students', in Work integrated learning: Innovations in training field teachers to enhance outcomes for students, ACEN Collaborative Education: Investing in the Future, Melbourne, presented at ACEN Collaborative Education: Investing in the Future, Melbourne, 29 October 2012 - 02 November 2012
    2012
    Fernandez EA, 2012, 'Understanding Child Abuse', in Understanding Child Abuse, 01 January 2012
    2012
    Fernandez EA, 2012, 'International Social Work: Current Realities and Future Challenges', in International Social Work: Current Realities and Future Challenges, 01 January 2012
    2012
    Fernandez EA, 2012, 'Facilitating resilient outcomes for children in care', in Facilitating resilient outcomes for children in care, 01 January 2012
    2012
    Fernandez EA, 2012, 'Children¿s Courts: Challenges and Possibilities Responding to', in Children¿s Courts: Challenges and Possibilities Responding to, 04 September 2012 - 07 September 2012
    2012
    Fernandez EA, 2011, 'Evidence Based Practice: Challenges and Opportunities', in How to Support Professionals to Support Evidence in Direct Practice, Fondazione Emanuela Zancan, Malosco, Italy, pp. 46 - 50, presented at Fondazione Emanuela Zancan, Malosco, Italy, 26 June 2011 - 28 June 2011
    2011
    Bolitho J; Hansen P; Fernandez E, 2011, 'Case study: Challenges, possibilities and future directions: The NSW Children’s Court', in Case study: Challenges, possibilities and future directions: The NSW Children’s Court, 2nd Annual Juvenile Justice Summit, Melbourne Australia, presented at 2nd Annual Juvenile Justice Summit, Melbourne Australia, 09 March 2011 - 10 March 2011
    2011
    Fernandez EA, 2011, 'Growing Up in Foster Care: Children's preceptions of their wellbeing', in Growing Up in Foster Care: Children's preceptions of their wellbeing, Children's Well-Being: the research and policy challenges, York England, presented at Children's Well-Being: the research and policy challenges, York England, 27 July 2011 - 29 July 2011
    2011
    Fernandez EA; Hamill R, 2010, 'How does Reunification Work: A Study of Reunification Outcomes', in How does Reunification Work: A Study of Reunification Outcomes, ACWA 10 - Building a Child Friendly Australia: Responding to Vulnerable Families., Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, pp. 64 - 65, presented at ACWA 10 - Building a Child Friendly Australia: Responding to Vulnerable Families., Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, 02 August 2010 - 04 August 2010
    2010
    Fernandez EA, 2010, 'Child Inclusive Research: Perceptions On Outcomes Of Care From An Australian Longitudinal Study', in Child Inclusive Research: Perceptions On Outcomes Of Care From An Australian Longitudinal Study, iaOBERfcs International Seminar: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches for Assessing Outcomes: Looking Ahead to the next 10 years., Florence, presented at iaOBERfcs International Seminar: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches for Assessing Outcomes: Looking Ahead to the next 10 years., Florence, 29 September 2010
    2010
    Fernandez EA; Lee J, 2010, 'Returning home: A study of reunification outcomes for separated children', in Returning home: A study of reunification outcomes for separated children, 11th International Biennial EUSARF Conference, Groningen, Netherlands, presented at 11th International Biennial EUSARF Conference, Groningen, Netherlands, 22 September 2010 - 25 September 2010
    2010
    Fernandez EA, 2010, 'Enhancing Field Based Learning through Effective Supervision', in Enhancing Field Based Learning through Effective Supervision, Joint World Conference on Social Work & Social development: The Agenda, Hong Kong, pp. 536, presented at Joint World Conference on Social Work & Social development: The Agenda, Hong Kong, 10 June 2010 - 14 June 2010
    2010
    Fernandez EA, 2009, 'Workshop on Supervision in Field Education', in Workshop on Supervision in Field Education, International Research Workshop, UNSW, presented at International Research Workshop, UNSW, 18 February 2009 - 20 February 2009
    2009
    Fernandez EA; Lee J, 2009, 'What does a multidimensional assessment of social and environmental indicators of risk tell us about the reunification outcomes for children in care?', in What does a multidimensional assessment of social and environmental indicators of risk tell us about the reunification outcomes for children in care?, 01 January 2009
    2009
    Fernandez EA, 2009, 'Children's Wellbeing in Care – Evidence from a Longitudinal Study of Outcomes.', in Children's Wellbeing in Care – Evidence from a Longitudinal Study of Outcomes., Well Being Research Showcase Program, UNSW, UNSW, presented at Well Being Research Showcase Program, UNSW, UNSW, 19 August 2009 - 20 August 2009
    2009
    Fernandez EA, 2009, 'How does foster care work for children: An evidence base', in How does foster care work for children: An evidence base, IFCO - Linking Global Foster Care International Conference, UCD, Dublin, Ireland, presented at IFCO - Linking Global Foster Care International Conference, UCD, Dublin, Ireland, 01 July 2009, http://www.ifco2009.ie/
    2009
    Fernandez EA, 2008, 'How do Children Fare i Care: A Longitudinal Study of Outcomes', in Assessing the evidence base of Intervention, 10th Eusarf International Conference, Padova, Italy, presented at 10th Eusarf International Conference, Padova, Italy, 26 March 2008 - 29 March 2008
    2008
    Fernandez EA, 2008, 'The Challenge of Growing up in Care - A Longitudinal Study of Outcomes', in The Challenge of Growing up in Care - A Longitudinal Study of Outcomes, 8th International Looking After Children Conference, Oxford University, presented at 8th International Looking After Children Conference, Oxford University, 07 July 2008 - 09 July 2008
    2008
    Fernandez EA, 2006, 'Unravelling emotional, behavioural and educational outcomes in a longitudinal study of children in foster care', in International Perspective on Mental Health Needs of children in care, International Perspective on Mental Health Needs of children in care, New York, pp. 1 - 9, presented at International Perspective on Mental Health Needs of children in care, New York, 20 September 2006
    2006
    Fernandez EA, 2006, 'Moving Research into action', in Positive futures, Positive futures, Sydney, pp. 23, presented at Positive futures, Sydney, 14 August 2006 - 16 August 2006
    2006
    Fernandez EA, 2006, 'Child`s wellbeing in care: Evidence from a longitudinal examination of outcomes', in Positive futures, Positive futures, Sydney, pp. 39, presented at Positive futures, Sydney, 14 August 2006 - 16 August 2006
    2006
    Fernandez EA, 2006, 'Growing up in Foster care: Perspectives of Children, Carers and Teachers', in 9th International EUSARF Congress, 9th International EUSARF Congress, Paris, France, presented at 9th International EUSARF Congress, Paris, France, 21 September 2005 - 24 September 2005
    2006
    Fernandez EA, 2005, 'Supporting Families: Following Interactions Between Families and their Support Workers', in iaOBERfcs - International Association for Outcome- (ed.), 5th International Seminar on Outcome-based evaluation in child and family services, 5th International Seminar on Outcome-based evaluation in child and family services, Venice, Italy, pp. 3 - 3, presented at 5th International Seminar on Outcome-based evaluation in child and family services, Venice, Italy, 18 September 2005 - 21 September 2005
    2005
    Fernandez EA, 2005, 'Growing up in care: children`s perceptions of outcomes of long term care', in EUSARF, ONED, Paris X Nanterre (ed.), 9th International EUSARF Congress, 9th International EUSARF Congress, Paris, France, pp. 61 - 61, presented at 9th International EUSARF Congress, Paris, France, 21 September 2005 - 24 September 2005
    2005
    Fernandez EA, 2005, 'Supporting Children and Responding to Families: Tracking Service Interactions and Outcomes', in EUSARF, ONED, Paris X Nanterre (ed.), 9th International EUSARF Congress, 9th International EUSARF Congress, Paris, France, pp. 62 - 62, presented at 9th International EUSARF Congress, Paris, France, 21 September 2005 - 24 September 2005
    2005
    Fernandez EA, 2004, 'Resilience and Care Outcomes: Perspectives of Children Carers and Teachers', in Social Department, Canada (ed.), Promoting Resilient Development in Children - 6th International Looking After Children Conference, Promoting Resilient Development in Children - 6th International Looking After Children Conference, Ottawa, Canada, presented at Promoting Resilient Development in Children - 6th International Looking After Children Conference, Ottawa, Canada, 16 August 2004 - 21 August 2004
    2004
    Fernandez EA, 2004, 'Working with Family Change: The case for best Practice in Family Support Intervention', in Social Development, Canada (ed.), 6th International Looking After Children Conference, Promoting Resilient Development in Children - 6th International Looking After Children Conference, Ottawa, Canada, presented at Promoting Resilient Development in Children - 6th International Looking After Children Conference, Ottawa, Canada, 16 August 2004 - 21 August 2004
    2004
    Fernandez EA, 2004, 'Intervention to Promote Family Wellness: Research Evidence and Policy Implications', in IFSW ; IASSW ; AASW ; AASWWE (eds.), Global Social Work Congress 2004 - Reclaiming Civil Society, Global Social Work Congress 2004 - Reclaiming Civil Society, Adelaide, Sth Aust, pp. 57 - 57, presented at Global Social Work Congress 2004 - Reclaiming Civil Society, Adelaide, Sth Aust, 02 October 2004 - 05 October 2004
    2004
    Fernandez EA, 2004, 'Promoting Child Wellbeing through Family Support: capturing the Research Evidence on Family Support', in ISPCAN (ed.), ISPCAN 15th International Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect, ISPCAN 15th International Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect, Brisbane, Qld, pp. 96 - 96, presented at ISPCAN 15th International Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect, Brisbane, Qld, 19 September 2004 - 22 September 2004
    2004
    Fernandez EA, 2004, 'Effective Interventions to Promote Resilient Outcomes for Children in Care: A Longitudinal Study of Children in Care', in ISPCAN (ed.), ISPCAN 15th International Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect, ISPCAN 15th International Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect, Brisbane, Qld, pp. 124 - 124, presented at ISPCAN 15th International Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect, Brisbane, Qld, 19 September 2004 - 22 September 2004
    2004
    Fernandez EA, 2004, 'Researching Children`s Views on Service Outcome: Future Research and Interventions', in Knowledge into Action: Effective Practice for Child and Family Services, Knowledge into Action: Effective Practice for Child and Family Services, Sydney, pp. 6 - 6, presented at Knowledge into Action: Effective Practice for Child and Family Services, Sydney, 01 August 2004 - 03 August 2004
    2004
    Fernandez EA, 2004, 'Supporting Children and Responding to Families: A Research Study of Intervention', in Uniting Care ; The Spastic Centre ; Dept. of Community Services (eds.), Intensive Family Services 5th National Practice Symposium, Intensive Family Services 5th National Practice Symposium - `In partnership with families: stepping off the roundabout`, Sydney, pp. 20 - 20, presented at Intensive Family Services 5th National Practice Symposium - `In partnership with families: stepping off the roundabout`, Sydney, 31 March 2004 - 02 April 2004
    2004
    Fernandez EA, 2001, 'Protecting Children by Strengthening Families: A Study of Outcomes of Intervention through family centres', in International Research Seminar on, International Research Seminar on, International Research Seminar on, pp. 251 - 272, presented at International Research Seminar on, International Research Seminar on, 01 January 2001
    2001
    Fernandez EA, 1998, 'Realities of women`s caring: rethinking child welfare interventions.', in Women Participating in Global Change, Women Participating in Global Change, Hong Kong, presented at Women Participating in Global Change, Hong Kong, 01 January 1996
    1998
    Conference Posters
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    Fernandez EA; Lee J, 2009, 'Pathways to permanency: Reunification outcomes for children in foster care.', Victoria, presented at Well Being Research Showcase Program, UNSW, UNSW, 19 August 2009 - 20 August 2009
    2009
    Edited Books
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    Fernandez E; Delfabbro P, (ed.), 2020, Child Protection and the Care Continuum: Theoretical and Empirical Insights, Routledge Taylor & Francis Group, London and New York, https://www.routledge.com/Child-Protection-and-the-Care-Continuum-Theoretical-Empirical-and-Practice/Fernandez-Delfabbro/p/book/9780367639174
    2020
    Fernandez E; Zeira A; Vecchiato T; Canali C, (eds.), 2015, Theoretical and Empirical Insights into Child and Family Poverty, Children's Well-Being: Indicators and Research Series, Springer International Publishing, New York, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-17506-5
    2015
    Fernandez EA, (ed.), 2009, Children Australia, Children Australia, Victoria
    2009
    Journal articles
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    Cations M; Laver KE; Walker R; Smyth A; Fernandez E; Corlis M, 2020, 'The case for trauma-informed aged care', International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, vol. 35, pp. 425 - 429, http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/gps.5247
    2020
    Kor K; Fernandez E; Spangaro J, 2020, 'Interpretative phenomenological analysis of young people's lived experiences of therapeutic residential care', Child and Family Social Work, http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/cfs.12792
    2020
    Fernandez E, 2019, 'Working towards better education for children in care: longitudinal analysis of the educational outcomes of a cohort of children in care in Australia', Oxford Review of Education, vol. 45, pp. 481 - 501, http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/03054985.2019.1612345
    2019
    Fernandez E, 2019, 'Poverta infantile nel contesto australiano', Studi Zancan Politiche e servizi alle persone, vol. maggio/agosto no 3-4 2019, pp. 31 - 37, https://shop.fondazionezancan.it/media/free-content/4224/SZ3-4_2019TUTTOsito.pdf
    2019
    Fernandez E, 2019, 'Understanding child poverty and its impact on educational outcomes in the Australian context: Strategies to address disadvantage', Studi Zancan Politiche e servizi alle persone, pp. 31 - 37, https://shop.fondazionezancan.it/media/free-content/4227/SZ%203-4%202019%20Special%20issue.pdf
    2019
    Fernandez EA; Lee J-S; McNamara P, 2018, 'Uprooted from Everything that Attaches You:Long-Term Outcomes of Former Child Migrants in Care in the Twentieth Century in Australia', British Journal of Social Work, http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/bjsw/bcy070
    2018
    View publication
    Lindsey D; Fernandez E; Franke TM; Johnson-Motoyama M; Klein S; Merritt DH; Shlonsky A, 2018, 'Long Term Harm to Immigrant Infants and Children', Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 91, pp. iii, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2018.07.019
    2018
    Fernandez E; Delfabbro P; Ramia IO; Kovacs S, 2018, 'Children Returning from Care: The Challenging Circumstances of Parents in Poverty', Special Issue, Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 97, pp. 100 - 111, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2017.06.008
    2018
    Fernandez E; Lee JS; Foote W; Blunden H; McNamara P; Kovacs S; Cornefert P-A, 2017, '‘There's More to be Done; “Sorry” is Just a Word’: Legacies of Out-of-Home Care in the 20th Century', Children Australia, vol. 42, pp. 176 - 176, http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/cha.2017.29
    2017
    View publication
    Fernandez E, 2017, 'Pathways to protection and permanency: Getting it right for children, young people and families', Developing Practice: the child youth and family work journal, https://search.informit.com.au/documentSummary;dn=405856137981575;res=IELAPA
    2017
    Fernandez EA, 2017, 'Adults damaged as children in care', Precedent, pp. 48 - 53, https://search.informit.com.au/documentSummary;dn=20180093;res=AGISPT
    2017
    Delfabbro P; Fernandez E; McCormick J; Ketter L, 2015, 'An Analysis of Reunification from Out-of-Home Care in Three Australian States', Child Indicators Research, vol. 8, pp. 359 - 373, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12187-014-9238-6
    2015
    Fernandez E, 2014, 'Child protection and vulnerable families: Trends and issues in the australian context', Social Sciences, vol. 3, pp. 785 - 808, http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/socsci3040785
    2014
    Fernandez EA; Atwool N, 2013, 'Child protection and out of home care: Policy, practice and research connections Australia and New Zealand', Intervencion Psicosocial, vol. 22, pp. 164 - 175, http://dx.doi.org/10.5093/in2013a21
    2013
    Fernandez EA, 2013, 'Reunification in a complete entry cohort: A longitudinal study of children entering out of home care in Tasmania, Australia', Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 35, pp. 1592 - 1600, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2013.06.012
    2013
    Fernandez EA; Lee J-S, 2013, 'Accomplishing family reunification for children in care: An Australian study', Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 35, pp. 1374 - 1384, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2013.05.006
    2013
    View publication
    Fernandez EA, 2012, 'Evidence based-practice: sfidé e opportunità', Politiche e servizi alle persone, vol. 2, pp. 47 - 56, http://www.fondazionezancan.it/en/pubblicazioni/studi_zancan
    2012
    Fernandez EA, 2011, 'Conceptualizing Indicators for Children in Diverse Contexts and Particular Circuimstances, Challenges and Constraints', Child Indicators Research, vol. 4, pp. 547 - 553, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12187-011-9124-4
    2011
    Fernandez EA, 2011, 'Ricerca Child inclusive: indicazioni da uno studio longitudinale australiano', Politiche e servizi, vol. 1, pp. 22 - 38, http://assemblealegislativa.regione.emilia-romagna.it/wcm/biblioteca/monitor/newsletter/numeri/indice2011/n11/novita/sic.htm
    2011
    Fernandez EA, 2011, 'Child inclusive research, policy and practcie', Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 33, pp. 487 - 489
    2011
    Ezell M; Spath R; Zeira A; Canali C; Fernandez EA; Thoburn JT; Vecchiato T, 2011, 'An international classification system for child welfare programs', Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 33, pp. 1847 - 1854, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2011.05.003
    2011
    Fernandez EA; Lee J-S, 2011, 'Returning children in care to their families: Factors associated with the speed of reunification', Child Indicators Research, vol. 4, pp. 749 - 765, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12187-011-9121-7
    2011
    View publication
    Fernandez EA, 2010, 'Child Inclusive Policy, Practice and Research', Children and Youth Services Review, vol. Advance access, pp. 487 - 489, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2010.08.013
    2010
    Fernandez EA, 2009, 'Using prevention science to reduce the risk of child neglect: A Response, Children Australia.', Children Australia, vol. 34, pp. 45 - 46
    2009
    Fernandez EA, 2009, 'Editorial', Children Australia, vol. 34, pp. 2 - 3, http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/EMBC.2013.6609411
    2009
    Fernandez EA, 2009, 'Children`s wellbeing in care: Evidence from a longitudinal study of outcomes', Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 31, pp. 1092 - 1100, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2009.07.010
    2009
    Fernandez EA, 2008, 'Unraveling Emotional, Behavioural and Educational Outcomes in a longitudinal Study', British Journal of Social Work, vol. 38, pp. 1283 - 1301, http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/bjsw/bcm028
    2008
    Fernandez EA, 2008, 'Psychological Wellbeing of Children in Care: A Longitudinal Study of Outcomes', Child indicators research, vol. 1, pp. 303 - 320, http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12187-008-9013-7
    2008
    Fernandez EA, 2007, 'How Children experience fostering outcomes: participatory research with children', Child and family social work, vol. 12, pp. 1 - 11, http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2206.2006.00454.x
    2007
    Fernandez EA, 2007, 'Unravelling Emotional Behavioural and Educational Outcomes in a Longitudinal Study of Children in Foster-Care', British Journal of Social Work, pp. 1 - 19
    2007
    Fernandez EA, 2007, 'Supporting Children and Responding to their families: Capturing the Evidence on Family Support', Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 29, pp. 1368 - 1394, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2007.05.012
    2007
    Fernandez EA, 2006, 'Supporting families: Tracking interactions between families and professionals in Sydney, Australia', International Journal of child and Family Welfare, vol. 9, pp. 26 - 40
    2006
    Fernandez EA, 2006, 'Making a Difference Through Family Support', Family Preservation Journal, vol. 7, pp. 89 - 103
    2006
    Fernandez EA; Berry M; Brandon M; Chaskin R; Grietens H; Lightburn A; McNamara PM; Mumford R; Palacio-Quintin E; Sanders J; Warren-Adamson C; Zeira A, 2006, 'Identifying sensitive outcomes of interventions in community-based centres', International Journal of child and Family Welfare, vol. 9, pp. 2 - 10
    2006
    Fernandez EA, 2004, 'Effective Interventions to Promote Child and Family Wellness', Child and family social work, vol. 9, pp. 91 - 104
    2004
    Fernandez EA, 2003, 'Promoting Teaching Competence in Field Education: Facilitating Transition from Practitioner to Educator', Women in Welfare Education, vol. 6, pp. 103 - 129
    2003
    Fernandez EA, 1999, 'Pathways in substitute care: representation of placement careers of children using event history analysis', Children and Youth Services Review, vol. 21, pp. 177 - 216, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S0190-7409(99)00014-6
    1999
    Fernandez EA, 1998, 'Student perceptions of satisfaction with practicum learning', Social Work Education, vol. 17, pp. 173 - 201
    1998
    Fernandez EA, 1997, 'Effective Teaching and Learning in Practicum Education: Perceptions of Student social Workers and Student Teachers', PEPE Research Monograph No. 2, pp. 67 - 107
    1997
    Reports
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    Fernandez E; Lee J-S; Mcnamara P, 2018, Understanding the experience and outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care during the Twentieth Century, Kensington: University of New South Wales, http://www.forgottenaustralians.unsw.edu.au/sites/default/files/uploads/Indigenour%20Report%20%202018.pdf
    2018
    Fernandez E; Ramia IO; Delaney J; Kovacs S, 2016, Reunification and Re-entry Trajectories for Children in Out-of-home care in Queensland, Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services
    2016
    Fernandez E; Lee JS; Blunden HM; Mcnamara P; Kovacs S; Cornefert P-A, 2016, No Child Should Grow Up Like This: Identifying long term outcomes of Forgotten Australians, Child Migrants and the Stolen Generations, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, http://www.forgottenaustralians.unsw.edu.au/sites/default/files/uploads/UNSW_ForgottenAustralians_Report_Nov16.pdf
    2016
    View publication
    Fernandez EA; Bolitho J; Hansen P; Hudson M; Kendall S, 2014, A study of the Children's Court of New South Wales: Part of a National Assessment of Australia's Children's Courts, University of New South Wales, Kensignton NSW
    2014
    Dolby R; Cashmore ; Brown ; Fisher KR; Fernandez ; Thomson , 2006, Outcome study on the use of children's services as a strategy in child protection, 15/2006
    2006
    Fernandez EA; Maplestone PH, 2006, Permanency Planning, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Original
    2006
    Fernandez EA; Healy JP, 2005, The Best thing I`ve ever done is ring these people, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Original
    2005
    Fernandez EA; Romeo R, 2003, Supporting Children and Responding to Families, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Original
    2003
    Fernandez EA, 2003, Protecting children: Strengthening Families, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Original
    2003

    AWARDS
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    2019 International Society for Child Indicators (ISCI) Award in honour of Alfred J. Kahn and Sheila Kamerman in recognition of outstanding contribution to the field of child indicators research from an international perspective
     

    2013 UNSW Award for Outstanding Postgraduate Research Supervision Child Abuse Prevention Award, Highly Commended (Excellence) for Looking After Children project, collaboration of Barnardos Australia and UNSW

     

    2011 National Award for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning by the Australian Learning and Teaching Council (ALTC) For leadership in the development of a research-led innovative curriculum to enhance the scholarship of learning and teaching.
     

    2011 Recognition for achievement in being recognized by the Australian Council for Learning and Teaching as recipient of citation for outstanding contributions to student Learning and Teaching Division of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (academic)

     

    AREA OF EXPERTISE
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    Child abuse & neglect, family support, child care & protection, outcomes of substitute care- fostering & adoption, supervision & field based learning in professional education

    Subject areas
    lensSocial Work