Financial support for foster carers in Queensland
Becoming a foster carer is a deeply rewarding experience, and financial support is available to help cover the costs of caring for a child. In Queensland, foster carers receive a fortnightly carer allowance ranging from $623.00 to $729.68 (as of January 2025), depending on the child’s age, needs, and care duration. This allowance is reviewed annually to keep up with inflation.
The allowance helps cover everyday expenses such as food, clothing, school supplies, transport, and medical needs. Carers may also be eligible for additional reimbursements for specific costs like school trips or medical expenses.
Special Allowances for High-Needs Children
If you’re providing care for children with higher support needs, you may qualify for extra financial assistance, including:
- High Support Needs Allowance (HSNA): An additional $219.38 per fortnight
- Complex Support Needs Allowance (CNSA): Ranges from $284.06 to $851.34 per fortnight, based on the child’s level of need
- Emergency care and teenage fostering.
Emergency Care and Teenage Fostering
Foster carers providing emergency care or looking after teenagers (aged 11+) receive pro-rata payments based on the care provided. The base fortnightly allowance for teenagers is $729.68.
Financial Assistance when you start fostering
Starting out as a foster carer? You may receive an establishment allowance to cover initial costs like clothes or nappies. A start-up allowance is also available when a child transitions to your care. These items remain the child’s property if they move to another placement.
Ready to apply?
Fostering is open to anyone over 18, regardless of gender, relationship status, or age. Your family, partner, or support network will be part of this journey with you. If you’re ready to apply, please enquire below.
Other financial support
Foster care payments are not considered taxable income and cannot be used to assess loan eligibility. However, carers may qualify for additional government benefits, such as the federal Family Tax Benefit, business discounts, and a smoke alarm subsidy.
For full details on available financial support, visit the Queensland Government website.
Want to learn more about foster and kinship care? Download our Foster Care Information Kit for inspiring carer stories and essential information.
Contact Us
Submit this form or call us to learn more about foster care at Anglicare. Our team is available between 9am and 5pm weekdays on 1300 000 828