What's involved

We need more foster carers to open their homes to vulnerable children and young people. So many local children and young people are benefiting from the kindness and guidance of our amazing carers.

Our foster carers are everyday people. They come from all walks of life, cultures and backgrounds. They may be working – or not, in a relationship – or not, have other children – or not. The most important attributes of a foster carer are a big heart and a lot of patience. Here is a snapshot of what’s involved in becoming a foster carer. It may seem complicated, but we simplify everything for you and are here to walk you through each step.

If you’re keen to know more please reach out to Sandra today on (02) 9481 2600 or info@catholiccaredbb.org.au.

Step 1: Complete our eligibility tool

Complete our online eligibility survey here which will let us know you’re interested in becoming a foster carer. We will follow up by phone and send you all the information you need to help you make an informed decision about moving ahead.

Step 2: Complete your application

By filling out the application you are formally agreeing to move ahead with the process to be a foster carer. We’ll be there every step of the way to walk you through the process.

Step 3: Undergo background checks

We are required to conduct background checks for all foster carers. These include reference checks, medical checks and a check of your home to ensure it meets minimum standards for a child’s safety. Formal background checks or probity are also conducted such as a Working with Children Check and National Police History Check.

Step 4: Assessment interviews take place

You and your family (and people residing with you) will be part of an assessment interview process. The assessment interviews will take place in your home and may be conducted over several sessions. We will ask you to prepare information on your background and ask a series of questions. Children and other adults residing in your home will also be interviewed.

Step 5: Undergo training

All adults in your home are required to participate in foster care training to give you a better understanding of the foster care role and to equip you with some of the skills you will need to provide quality care.

Step 6: Approvals take place

Upon completion of the paperwork, checks, assessment and training, a report is prepared. We will let you know if you have either been approved as a carer, or let you know why you have not.

Step 7: Welcome a child or young person

Congratulations! You are now a foster carer! It’s time to welcome a child or young person into your home and commence your journey.

Latest foster Care news

Oscar’s search for family takes him to NZ

From a young age, Oscar wondered about his estranged family, but these thoughts were often associated with sadness. After entering care with CatholicCare in 2019, his team of workers became his substitute family.

Taylor thrives in her placement

Before entering an Individual Placement Arrangement with CatholicCare in October 2022, 12 year old Taylor had never lived anywhere for very long. Her placements with foster carers and family members would regularly break down, and in the months before coming to CatholicCare she was living in temporary accommodation with agency workers.

Sally builds meaningful connections

Last year marked a significant and heart-warming chapter in our Intensive Therapeutic Care (ITC) team as we welcomed Sally into our care.

A word from our Executive Director

I had not run a foster care service prior to joining CatholicCare, but I had managed other types of programs for children in Out of Home Care. I knew from my experience that kids in foster care almost always thrived.

What's involved in becoming a carer?