Q: How long does it take before our family can become foster Carers?
A: From the time you apply to the time you are registered takes about six months.

Q: Will the child or young person's family be told where we live?
A: Generally the address of the Foster Carer is not provided to the family unless you have given your permission and it is seen as appropriate.

Q: Do children or young people usually stay in their local area when in Foster Care?
A: Children and Foster Carers are matched according to the child's needs and the preferred family structure of the carer/s. To minimise disruption to the child, children usually stay in their local area.

Q: Will the child go to our local school or will they stay at their own school?
A: If a child is staying for a short period they will usually remain at their own school so they continue to have contact with familiar people and places. If it is a long term placement then the child would attend the school in your suburb.

Q: How long does each placement last?
A: The length of time varies depending on each child  or young person's situation. Most children or young people are in foster care only for a short time—this might be overnight in an emergency, for a couple of weeks to provide respite, or for up to six months. Some children or young people are cared for longer than six months or permanently if they are unable to return home. In a small number of situations a child or young person is cared for on a shared basis by two families.

Q: Can children in Foster Care attend private schools?
A: Generally children and young people attend government schools to maintain consistent education as in many cases they will return home, and to their previous school.

Q: Can children and young people in Foster Care accompany our family on holidays?
A: Yes. Holidays are often an experience that children and young people have not had. However, you will need to tell the case worker as it may effect regular contact with a parent.

Q: Can I nominate the age of the child I would prefer?
A: Yes. You can give your preference about the age and gender of a child you think would fit best with your family and lifestyle.

Q: Will the subsidy I receive effect my taxable income or Centrelink entitlements?
A: No. You do not have to declare the subsidy you receive for the child or young person as income.

Q: Can I receive Family Allowance for Foster children?
A: Yes. However you will need to discuss length of placement with the case worker and meet the Centrelink criteria.

Q: Will I receive any financial support for the Foster children?
A: Yes. A subsidy is paid each fortnight. There is further information about financial support.

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