How to Become a Foster Carer in Melbourne
Becoming a foster carer in Melbourne is one of the most rewarding ways you can make a difference in a child’s life. Every year, thousands of Victorian children need a safe and nurturing environment due to family breakdown, neglect, or other challenges. Foster carers provide stability, support, and a sense of belonging during a difficult time.
If you’ve ever considered opening your home and heart to a child in need, this guide will walk you through how to become a foster carer in Melbourne, the requirements, the application process, and what to expect along the way.
What Is Foster Care?
Foster care is a temporary arrangement where children and young people live with approved carers when they can’t live safely with their biological families. It can last from a few days to several years and includes different types:
- Emergency care – Immediate, short-term care for children in crisis
- Short-term care – While long-term plans are made for the child
- Long-term care – For children who can’t return home
- Respite care – Providing relief to other foster families or biological families
- Kinship care – Where a child is cared for by a relative or someone they know
Foster carers play a vital role in providing emotional support, routine, guidance, and love to children going through tough transitions.
Who Can Become a Foster Carer in Melbourne?
People from all walks of life can become foster carers. You can be:
- Single, married, or in a same-sex relationship
- Renting or owning your home
- Working full-time, part-time, or retired
- From any cultural, religious, or ethnic background
What matters most is that you can provide a safe, stable, and loving environment.
Basic requirements include:
- Being over 21 years of age
- Having a spare bedroom
- Undergoing background checks (police and Working With Children Check)
- Being in good physical and mental health
- Completing training and assessments
You don’t need to be a parent already—just someone willing to care, learn, and adapt.
How to Become a Foster Carer in Melbourne: Step-by-Step
Here’s what the process generally looks like:
Do Your Research
Start by learning about what’s involved. Visit the websites of foster care agencies in Melbourne and attend information sessions (many offer them online). Good starting points include:
- OzChild
- Anglicare Victoria
- Berry Street
- MacKillop Family Services
- Victorian Government’s Better Futures program
Make an Enquiry
Once you’re ready to explore further, submit an initial enquiry online or over the phone. An agency representative will contact you to discuss your interest and answer your questions.
Attend an Information Session
These sessions provide an overview of foster care types, expectations, support available, and the impact of trauma on children. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and hear from current carers.
Application and Screening
If you’re still keen to proceed, you’ll be asked to complete a formal application. This stage includes:
- Personal interviews
- Home safety inspections
- Medical checks
- National Police Check
- Working With Children Check
- Referee checks
Complete Training
All prospective carers must complete pre-service training. This typically includes topics such as:
- Understanding trauma
- Managing challenging behaviour
- Building resilience
- Working with birth families
- Understanding the child protection system
Training helps prepare you for real-life situations and builds your confidence as a carer.
Home Assessment
A caseworker will visit your home multiple times to assess its safety and suitability. They’ll also explore your motivations, values, and support systems. This is to ensure the best possible match between carer and child.
Approval and Accreditation
If everything checks out, you’ll be formally approved as a foster carer. You’ll then be placed on the agency’s register and notified when a child in need matches your profile.
What Support Do Foster Carers Receive?
You’re never alone as a foster carer. Agencies provide:
- Ongoing training and professional development
- 24/7 support line
- Financial assistance or allowance to cover the child’s needs
- Respite care option
- Regular contact with a case manager
Support networks, including peer support groups and counselling, are also available to help you manage challenges and celebrate successes.
Why Melbourne Families Are Saying “Yes” to Foster Care
With the rising number of children in out-of-home care across Victoria, foster carers are urgently needed. Many families in Melbourne are stepping up to make a difference, providing not just a house, but a sense of hope and healing.
You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be present, patient, and willing to care.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a foster carer in Melbourne is a life-changing journey—not only for the child, but for you. While it comes with challenges, the rewards of seeing a child heal, grow, and feel safe again are immeasurable.
If you’re ready to take the first step, contact a local foster care agency today. Your spare room could be someone’s haven.
