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

Blake’s youth work story

Every few months, CatholicCare hosts a Youth Worker information night to attract prospective employees for the Permanency Support Program. Attendees come and go, with some deciding to apply for a Youth Worker position and others going on their merry way in search of the right career.

Alice dreams of becoming a doctor

Moving 1½ hours away when you’re 16 years old is hard at the best of times. But for Alice and her sisters who live with CatholicCare foster carers, Julie and John, their move coincided with the beginning of a lengthy lockdown.

In the news – the urgent need for foster carers

Up to 30 kids need emergency accommodation each night on the Northern Beaches, but many are forced to sleep in motel rooms due to a desperate shortage of foster carers. As many as 30 children — some aged just five — need emergency accommodation each night on the Northern Beaches.

Adam’s embracing care & taking steps to a brighter future

A difficult start in life and added trauma along the way led young Adam to develop some challenging behaviours, disengage with school and use anger as a barrier against the world. But the supports he has received while living in one of our Intensive Therapeutic Care homes has seen a number of small breakthroughs which are helping him to identify his emotions, modify his behaviour and re-engage with education.

What's involved in being a carer?