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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? If you’re looking into the different types of foster care and for the best foster care agency to choose, read on. Our Illawarra & Wollongong region has a strong need for more foster carers. So we thank you for considering fostering and how you can help local children in need of safe and supportive homes.

    People choose to become foster carers for many reasons. Maybe a foster carer has inspired you. You may have insight into childhood trauma and want to protect a child. Or, you’re at a stage of life where you want to give back to your community. The link across all these, is a want to help vulnerable children get the best start in life.

    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. We acknowledge your interest in becoming a foster carer and your want to make a difference!

    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 (or part-time) care. You choose what works best for you, based on your lifestyle and availability.

    Types of Kids Foster Care:

    • Emergency Care: Short notice placements, usually overnight or a few days.
    • Short-Term Care: From a few weeks – up to 2 years, while permanent plans are made.
    • Long-Term Care: Ongoing care when children cannot return home for a longer period, if at all. They may need support for a period of years, or until they reach adulthood. There are options for permanent care or guardianship in NSW; please discuss this with the foster care agency.
    • Respite Care: Planned care over a weekend or two a month, or during school holidays. This provides valuable support to parents, guardians or regular foster carers, helping them recharge and continue offering consistent care.

    Can Foster Carers Adopt a Child?

    Many children in the Illawarra region are waiting for a permanent, loving home, and your chosen foster care agency can advise you about the path from fostering to adoption. Further below you will find three trusted and supportive organisations in the Illawarra, including MacKillop Family Services.

    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
    • In same sex relationships or heterosexual
    • Working or retired 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 Are the Eligibility Criteria for Becoming a Foster Carer in NSW?

    Foster care agencies are committed to ensuring every child is placed in a safe and secure environment and so they assess each application carefully. As such, there are some factors that may prevent 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

    What is the Foster Carer Allowance in NSW?

    Foster carers in NSW receive a fortnightly care allowance to help cover the day-to-day costs of raising a child, ensuring they can focus on providing a nurturing environment. The amount varies depending on the age and needs of the child.

    From 1 January 2026, the foster care allowance rates in NSW will range from around $697 to $1000+ per fortnight, per child. The rates differ according to age and are also higher for children with additional needs or for specialised placements. Note: The foster care allowance is not considered taxable income in NSW.

    In addition to this:

    • Foster Care Agencies operating in the Illawarra (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.

    Best Foster Care Agencies in Wollongong & the Illawarra

    The following foster care agencies have a strong presence across the Illawarra and NSW and are recognised for their supportive approach to carers and children alike.

    MacKillop Family Services

    CatholicCare Foster Care

    • Strong community network and wraparound support
    • Ongoing education and development
    • The ability to move into adoption is supported
    • 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
    • Short term foster carers can access higher payments with Barnardos.
    • 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. Foster care agencies provide you with support and training to handle these common challenges:

    • Saying goodbye to a child you’ve bonded with when they return to their birth family or move to a new placement (Suggested listening: MacKillop Family Services Podcast)
    • 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 MacKillop Family Services, 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 can you change the life of a vulnerable child, but you also gain:

    • A deeper sense of purpose and positive impact from your life
    • A way to give back to your local community, with an allowance to help with costs of fostering a child.
    • Flexible lifestyle with an extra income (e.g great for parents with young kids & wishing to stay more home & local based, or for anyone with time and care to give)
    • A deeper knowledge of emotional connection and relationship building – as you help a child thrive!
    • The ability to leave a lasting impact on the most vulnerable children in our society.

    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 you.

    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 and person that a local child needs. Parents Guide Illawarra acknowledges you, your interest in fostering AND your want to make a difference. We wish you all the best in your fostering journey.

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