Who can foster?
Foster carers are ordinary people from all walks of life, backgrounds, ages and experiences. Anyone who is over 20 years of age and can offer a child or young person in need a secure, caring environment is eligible to apply to become a foster carer, including:
- Single people
- Heterosexual and homosexual couples
- Older and retired people
- Young people
- Home owners or renters
- Students or those in full-time, part-time or unpaid work.
All prospective carers must be willing to complete the Shared Stories, Shared Lives Victoria training program and undergo an accreditation process which includes a police check and a Working With Children check.
What makes a good foster carer?
Foster carers require a commitment to children, an ability to be flexible, patient and understanding, and a good sense of humour.
Foster carers receive training to develop their skills and to learn about children who have lived through traumatic experiences and troubled family lives. They need to understand why children may behave in certain ways and to be patient and perceptive in dealing with their needs.