Becoming a foster carer is a life-changing decision, one that comes with a lot of questions. We’ve pulled together some of the most common queries we receive to help you better understand the process and what to expect.
How does the placement matching process work?
Placement matching is a collaborative and thoughtful process. We take the time to get to know you during the carer authorisation process, building a profile that includes your employment status, family structure, personal experiences, and whether you identify as Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, or come from a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background.
All of this information helps guide our decision-making when a child needs care. There are many moving parts in the matching process, but you’ll always have a voice in the decision and the final say on any placement offered.
What home limitations are there for foster carers?
Generally, we ask that carers have a spare bedroom available for the child in their care. However, there are situations where flexibility may apply. For example, babies may be able to share a room with their foster parents, and in some cases, young siblings might share a room if that’s what’s best for them.
As part of the application process, we’ll conduct a home visit to ensure your home is safe and suitable. This includes checking fencing, pool safety, pets, and other general safety considerations. If your home needs modifications to meet our standards, we’ll discuss these with you in detail and support you in making any necessary changes.
What health issues might prevent me from becoming a foster carer?
We understand that everyone experiences health challenges at some point in their lives. Having a health condition doesn’t automatically disqualify you from becoming a carer. Instead, we look at whether your health may affect your ability to provide day-to-day care, and whether caring might have an impact on your wellbeing.
Our team is here to work with you, not against you. If additional support is needed, like respite care or regular check-ins with your caseworker, we’ll do everything we can to help you continue providing care in a sustainable and healthy way.
How much information will I receive about the child before a placement?
This depends on the type of care you’re providing and how much information is available at the time. In emergency situations, we may only have the child’s age and gender to share with you initially. In planned respite placements, the information might be more limited, as these are often short-term stays. For long-term placements, we aim to provide as much relevant information as possible, including health, behaviour, and history, while also respecting the child’s right to privacy.
Each child has their own story, and we’re always mindful that it’s their story to tell. Our role is to share what’s necessary to help you provide safe, supportive care, without overstepping their personal boundaries.
How often will I meet with the care team?
Once you’re an authorised carer, you’ll meet with your caseworker at least once a month for a home visit. These visits are a chance to check in, ask questions, raise concerns, and request any additional support or training you may need.
In addition to these monthly visits, you’ll also have access to an after-hours support line if you ever need urgent assistance. We run regular training sessions throughout the year, both in person and online, and we also host carer morning teas, giving you a chance to connect with other local carers and build your own support network.
You’ll never be on your own; we’re with you every step of the way.
What training will I receive as a foster carer?
Before you’re authorised, you’ll complete Shared Lives training, a foundational course designed to prepare you for the realities of fostering. This training covers a range of topics, including working with birth families, trauma-informed care, child development, and managing behaviour positively.
Depending on the needs of the child in your care, you may be required to complete additional training after you’re authorised. For example, you might attend specific sessions focused on supporting children with disability or helping children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Our training is designed to be practical, informative, and responsive to real-life situations you may encounter as a carer.
Still have questions?
That’s okay, becoming a foster carer is a big decision, and we’re here to help you feel informed and supported at every stage. If you’re ready to take the next step or just want to learn more, get in touch with our team today.
