Become a foster carer

The amount of time it takes to become accredited as a foster carer really depends on your availability but on average it takes between three and six months. You’ll be guided through the process every step of the way. We understand f at any stage you decide foster caring isn’t for you, or the timing just isn’t right - there are no hard feelings.

There are four steps after your first chat to become accredited as a foster carer and be ready for your first placement. As part of this process we’ll talk to you about ensuring you have space in your home for a child.

1. Meet our recruitment worker Ana.
2. Attend an information session.
3. Pass your police and working with children checks.
4. Attend three training sessions and four interviews.

More about training:

There are three training sessions as part of the accreditation process. Held on a Saturday, they’re designed to support you in your role, answer your questions and help you gain a thorough understanding of what to expect.

Many of our carers have children of their own and are accredited based on the best fit for their family. We provide training for biological children and parents tell us that fostering has been a wonderful learning experience for the whole family.

It is rare that a foster carer will meet the child’s parents. In most cases access visits between biological parents and foster children are facilitated by our staff at a mutually convenient time and location.

Guidance and training:

You’ll be guided personally through the application process by one of our staff and once accredited, you’ll have 24/7 access to one of our qualified and experienced case managers.
For more information visit the Foster Care Association of Victoria https://www.fcav.org.au/

Plus one you become accredited you’ll continue to attend additional training should you feel you or your family would benefit from it.

Financial assistance:

Every placement is different but carers do receive a standard carer reimbursement payment. There may be extra allowances depending on the needs of the child. Contact our office for more information.

You’re accredited based on the age, gender and type of care you choose to provide and our case workers will always call you to discuss a placement before it goes ahead.

The length of time a child stays with you will depend on your level of accreditation and current circumstances. For example, if you’re accredited to do respite care then a child may stay with you for one weekend a month. If it’s for emergency it could be overnight or longer, depending on your availability.

We understand that personal circumstances can change. Sometimes our carers take time off, move interstate or focus on having children of their own. It’s as simple as making a call to your case worker to discuss your needs and those of any children that may be in your care at the time.