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    Becoming a Foster Carer: Illawarra & NSW Guide

    Becoming a Foster Carer: Illawarra & NSW Guide

    Wondering about becoming a foster carer in the Illawarra or greater NSW? Whether you’re researching fostering a child, the types of foster carer, or to enquire with the leading Foster Care Agencies, read on. Our Illawarra region has a strong need for more foster carers. So we thank you for considering foster care and how you’d help vulnerable local children, right when they need it.

    At Parents Guide Illawarra, we’re your trusted guide for families and parenting resources across Wollongong and the South Coast NSW. We’re passionate about supporting families of all kinds, including those who step forward to provide stable, safe homes for children who need it most.

    Main title/article image c/o Key Assets Australia

    What is Foster Care?

    Foster care is a way of providing a safe and nurturing home to children and young people who are unable to live with their birth families for a period of time. Foster carers can choose to be short-term, long-term, emergency-based or for respite care. This is important to know, for anyone considering foster care, as you choose the type, based on your lifestyle and availibility.

    Types of Kids Foster Care:

    • Emergency Care: Short notice placements, usually overnight or a few days.
    • Short-Term Care: From a few days to several months while permanent plans are made.
    • Long-Term Care: Ongoing care when children are unlikely to return to their birth families.
    • Respite Care: Regular weekend or school holiday care to support long-term carers.

    Who Can Be a Foster Carer?

    You don’t need to be a traditional nuclear family to make a difference. Foster carers come from all walks of life. You can be:

    • A couple or a single adult
    • A parent wanting to be home-based with extra income and flexibility
    • An empty nester or retiree with time and love to give
    • From any cultural or religious background

    Requirements usually include:

    • Being over 25 years old
    • Having a stable home environment
    • Having a spare bedroom (generally – not required for babies)
    • Passing background and health checks
    • Willingness to participate in training and assessments
    • If you live with a partner, they need to be supportive of your foster care plans

    Foster Care Myths: Busted!

    • “I couldn’t give the foster child back.” Many foster carers say this was their biggest concern. But over time, they realise the joy in giving a child stability and love when they need it most. They are invested in the best outcome of their foster care child, and when this is to safely return to their birth family, this can be a wonderful outcome.

    • “Fostering will negatively affect my own children.” Many foster care families report that their own children develop empathy, patience, and perspective by being part of the caring journey. These are such beautiful, transformational qualities in any young person and a massive benefit of fostering.

    • “I don’t have enough time.” You can choose the type of care that works for your schedule—including respite or emergency care.

    • “I don’t own my home.“Home ownership is not required. A safe and stable home environment is what matters, generally with a spare bedroom.

    • “I’m worried I’ll get locked in.” Foster care agencies work with you. You are not locked in forever. Support is always available, and you can change your commitment level.

    What Disqualifies You from Becoming a Foster Carer in NSW?

    Foster care agencies are committed to ensuring every child is placed in a safe and secure environment. While each case is assessed individually, there are some factors that may disqualify someone from becoming a foster carer in NSW:

    • Serious criminal history, particularly offences related to children, violence, or drugs
    • Unresolved child protection issues or prior involvement with child welfare services
    • Unstable housing or living arrangements that cannot safely accommodate a child
    • Untreated mental health conditions or addiction issues that could impact caregiving ability
    • Unwillingness to work collaboratively with the child’s caseworkers and support network
    • Failure to complete required training or assessments

    However, having a past issue doesn’t automatically mean you can’t foster. Agencies will consider the context, time passed, and your current situation. You can speak honestly with your chosen agency.

    How Much Are Foster Carers Paid in NSW? Foster Care Payments

    Foster carers in NSW receive a fortnightly care allowance to help cover the day-to-day costs of raising a child. The amount varies depending on the age and needs of the child.

    As of 2025, general foster care allowance rates in NSW range from approximately $530 to $715 per fortnight per child. Higher payments are available for children with additional needs or in specialised placements.

    In addition to this:

    • All three organisations (MacKillop Family Services, CatholicCare and Barnardos) offer support, training and resources
    • Some may offer carer support groups, respite opportunities, and additional reimbursements depending on the complexity of the child’s care needs.

    Note: Foster Care payments are not considered taxable income in NSW.

    Wollongong & Illawarra’s Leading Foster Care Agencies

    These three leading Foster Care Organisations are well-known and trusted throughout the Illawarra and NSW. They each offer exceptional carer support, flexible placement options, and a child-first approach.

    MacKillop Family Services

    • Trauma-informed care model with a focus on healing
    • Excellent training and peer support groups
    • Known for supporting carers every step of the way
    • Enquire: MacKillop Family Services Foster Care

    CatholicCare Foster Care

    • Strong community network and wraparound support
    • Ongoing education and development
    • Available for carers across Wollongong and the Illawarra
    • Enquire: CatholicCare Foster Care

    Barnardos Australia

    • Evidence-based support for children and carers
    • 24/7 assistance and excellent case management
    • Known for trauma-informed, long-term support
    • Enquire: Barnardos Foster Care

    What Is the Hardest Part of Fostering?

    Fostering is a deeply rewarding experience, but it’s important to acknowledge the challenges that come with it. Many carers say that while the journey is meaningful, it can also be emotionally complex.

    Common challenges include:

    • Saying goodbye to a child you’ve bonded with when they return to their birth family or move to a new placement
    • Navigating trauma-related behaviours and emotional needs that some children may have
    • Working within the child protection system and attending court hearings or case meetings
    • Maintaining boundaries while providing unconditional care and support

    Despite these challenges, carers overwhelmingly report that the rewards outweigh the difficulties. You are never alone in the process. Agencies such as Anglicare, CatholicCare, and Barnardos offer 24/7 support, training, respite care and a network of professionals who walk the journey with you.

    Rewards and Benefits of Becoming a Foster Carer

    Foster carers say the journey is rewarding, life-changing and deeply fulfilling. Not only do you change the life of a vulnerable child, but you also gain:

    • A deeper sense of purpose
    • Flexible lifestyle support and income
    • A way to give back to your local community

    You don’t have to be perfect—you just need to be patient, open and willing to learn. All three agencies provide comprehensive training and help you decide if this is right for your family.

    Ready to Enquire About Becoming A Foster Carer?

    Becoming a foster carer is a journey—and the first step is simply asking questions. You’d be in great hands if you enquire with any of the organisations below, they will welcome your enquiry and will advise on how to apply.

    Contact Your Local Foster Care Organisations:

    You could be the safe, steady and loving home that a local child needs.

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