Could I be a Foster Carer?

Deciding to become a foster carer is a big step. It is important that you talk over your decision with the key people in your life including your family, partner and friends, and all who will be affected if you bring a child or young person into your home.

We are looking for people to become foster carers who have the ability to get on well with children and young people, a clear and friendly style of communication, a sense of responsibility, a willingness to work with CareSouth, excellent listening skills, a sense of humour, self motivation and above all commitment.

To become a foster carer, prospective foster carers must go through a selection process where we consider your suitability to become a foster carer. This process also gives prospective foster carers an opportunity to explore if foster care is the right choice for them.

You’re interested?

You can send an expression of interest e-mail or you can phone CareSouth direct on 1300 554 260. A CareSouth caseworker will then discuss your interest further over the phone.

A detailed information package and application form will be sent out after the initial phone call.  Prospective foster carers will need to read the information package and return an application form if they wish to proceed in the process of becoming a foster carer.

Assessment and selection

Once you have decided to apply, you will need to undertake a formal assessment and training.

The assessment includes meetings and interviews. Some will be held in your own home, so that all members of your household can participate.

You will have the chance to give your own preferences for the type of foster care and placement. You may prefer short or long term placements, for example, or have a particular wish to care for a baby, a sibling group, teenagers or a child or young person with a disability.

Prospective foster carers receive preliminary training — usually run over a series of evenings or weekends. After the assessment and training, a recommendation will be made about your suitability to become a foster carer.

As a prospective carer, you will be asked to agree to criminal and other record checks before receiving a placement.

You will also be asked to sign a Code of Conduct which sets the minimum standards for children in care over a range of topics including home and bedroom facilities, discipline, health and medical requirements and other expectations of the carer.