We provide a range of support to carers throughout their fostering journey.
Becoming a foster carer is a life‑changing decision. At MacKillop, we believe caring for children also means caring for the people who open their homes to them.
From your first enquiry through to long‑term care, we provide practical, consistent and personalised support so you feel confident and supported every step of the way.
Support that grows with you
Foster carers at MacKillop are supported by a dedicated case worker/manager who gets to know you, your household and the child in your care. You’ll also have access to a wider team of experienced professionals and specialists, ensuring help is always close at hand.
Training and ongoing learning
Before welcoming a child, you’ll take part in comprehensive training that prepares you for the realities of foster care. You can also access ongoing learning opportunities to help you continue building skills, confidence and understanding as your caring experience grows.
Help when you need it most
Caring doesn’t stop after business hours and neither does our support. MacKillop offers after‑hours assistance, giving you reassurance and guidance whenever unexpected situations arise.
Specialist support for children
Children in foster care may have additional needs. We connect carers with therapeutic, education and behavioural support services, ensuring children, and carers, don’t have to manage challenges alone.
Flexible care options
Whether you’re interested in short‑term, permanent, therapeutic or part-time care, MacKillop provides tailored support to match your role and circumstances.
Financial and practical support
Foster carers receive tax‑free government care allowances to help cover everyday costs. These vary from state to state and we will clearly explain to you how allowances work, so you know what to expect.
A trauma informed approach
As an accredited Sanctuary organisation, MacKillop’s approach to foster care is trauma‑informed, focusing on safety, respect and stable, nurturing environments where children can heal. This framework recognises the impact trauma can have on children and young people and guides support for carers.
Take the first step
If you’re thinking about becoming a foster carer, MacKillop is here to support you from day one.
Learn more about fostering with MacKillop and explore your care options
Take the first step to becoming a foster carer today.
Download our information booklet
This booklet contains lots of information about foster care and our approach to it. The booklet is tailored to each state where we work - download a copy for the state in which you live.
Frequently asked questions about foster care
Do I need to have a spare bedroom?
Yes. It’s important that children coming into a foster carer’s home have their own space. We require carers to have one spare bedroom that has a window and door. The only exception to this is when caring for babies under the age of 18 months.
Can I apply to foster babies but not older children?
Yes, however there needs to be a full time carer at home with the baby. This is important because babies have already experienced the trauma of separation from their family, so placing them in childcare is not in their best interest.
I’m only interested in adoption or permanent care. Is this an option?
This depends on whether you’re located in Victoria, NSW or WA as the legislation varies between states.
In Victoria, foster care is geared towards reuniting children with their birth families. If you’re interested in adoption or permanent care in Victoria you’re best to contact Fostering Connections on 1800 013 088 to ask about agencies which provide permanent care options.
Foster care in WA operates very similar to how it does in Victoria. If you’re interested in adoption or permanent care, please contact the Department of Child Protection (DCP) on 1800 182 178. There are options for permanent care or guardianship in NSW with MacKillop. Please enquire online or call us on 1300 791 677 to find out more.
What training do I have to do?
If you have a partner, both of you will need to complete training with MacKillop. This involves two full days of classroom hours.
What happens after training?
Training is followed by an assessment period where MacKillop staff come to your home to discuss a series of topics to determine if you are suitable to provide care to vulnerable children and young people. The assessment phase usually entails 3-5 interviews in your home.
I’m interested in foster care but I’m single and work full time?
Whether you’re in a relationship or single is not important. Whether you can provide a safe and loving home is the most important thing. Working full time is not a barrier to becoming a foster carer, however some flexibility with your work is required.
I am a member of the LGBTIQA+ community. Can I be a foster carer?
Yes. We welcome lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, gender diverse and intersex people at our services. Children in care may also identify as LGBTIQA+ and require carers who are understanding, accepting and nurturing of their identity.
