Hunter foster carer push launched as more than 160 local children need homes

newy.com.au – Hunter residents are being urged to become foster carers as the Minns Labor Government launches a local recruitment drive to find more homes for children and young people who cannot live safely with their families.

The campaign comes as more than 160 children and young people across the Hunter need the stability of foster care. The government said there was particular demand for carers able to take sibling groups, including some with children under five, and adolescents, who often wait the longest to be placed.

The recruitment push forms part of the state government’s $1.2 billion child protection package, which includes spending on foster care recruitment, training and support. In January, the Foster Care Allowance was increased for the first time in 20 years, lifting the base rate by 20 per cent. The government said a foster carer of a typical 14-year-old was now more than $4500 better off each year.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said more people in the region should consider opening their homes to vulnerable children. “I know there are hundreds of people across the Hunter who have what it takes to become a foster carer. I encourage anyone who is considering fostering to reach out and find out how you can support vulnerable kids in our communities.”

Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington said foster care could take different forms, including emergency, respite, short-term and long-term care. “Fostering is a profoundly rewarding way to change a child’s life. Every child deserves a safe and loving home. Right now, across our region there are too many kids who are going without.”

She said misconceptions about eligibility and the time involved were discouraging some potential carers, despite a range of ways people could help. “You can foster if you rent or own your own home, if you’re single or married, work full-time or are retired – all you need is love in your heart and space in your home.”

Department of Communities and Justice Secretary Michael Tidball said local carers helped children remain connected to their communities, schools and support networks, and said practical, financial and professional support was being strengthened to back people who stepped forward.

People interested in becoming a foster carer can find more information through the NSW Government’s foster care website.