Becoming a foster carer is one of the most rewarding decisions a person or family can make. But it’s also a big responsibility—one that requires proper preparation and support. Thankfully, in Australia, the foster care training and assessment process is designed to equip carers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to care for vulnerable children.
Here’s a curated look at how the process works, what to expect, and why it’s a crucial part of the journey to becoming a foster carer.
🔍 1. Why Is Foster Carer Training Essential?
Foster children often come from complex backgrounds involving trauma, loss, and uncertainty. Carers need to be emotionally ready, well-informed, and supported to help these children feel safe and nurtured. That’s where training comes in.
Training helps prospective carers:
- Understand trauma-informed care
- Learn behavioural management strategies
- Navigate the legal and child protection system
- Develop empathy and communication skills
- Build resilience and self-care techniques
Most agencies use evidence-based programs like Shared Lives or Step by Step, tailored to meet Australian standards.
📝 2. The Assessment Process: What to Expect
Before you're approved as a foster carer, a thorough assessment process ensures you’re suitable for the role—emotionally, mentally, physically, and practically. This usually includes:
- Initial enquiry and home visit
- Police and Working with Children Checks
- Reference checks (both personal and professional)
- Health checks
- Home safety assessments
- Structured interviews with you and your family
The entire process is designed to be respectful and collaborative, focusing not on perfection, but on your capacity to provide a safe and loving environment.
🎓 3. Mandatory Pre-Service Training
All prospective foster carers must complete a pre-service training course, which often runs over several weeks. These sessions cover:
- Understanding the child protection system
- Caring for children who’ve experienced trauma
- Rights and responsibilities of carers
- Building positive relationships with birth families
- Managing challenging behaviour
- Recording and reporting obligations
Courses are usually delivered in person or online, depending on your state or territory and agency.
💬 4. Real Carer Insight: What Others Say
“The training really opened our eyes. It wasn’t just about looking after a child—it was about understanding their story and how to be there for them in ways that truly matter.”
— Lisa & Mark, Foster Carers in Victoria
Reading real-life stories or watching videos shared by foster care organisations can give you a sense of the emotional and practical realities involved.
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