Long-term foster care

Long term placements are for children who are unable to return to live with their families. Carers provide a safe and supportive environment where children can be themselves and feel comfortable in their new home. Children can stay in long term placement until they are 21 years old and start adulthood. Other types of foster care include, emergency care, respite care and short-term care.

The role of an Anglicare Foster Care Case Practitioner is to provide you with ongoing training and support so you can be the best carer you can be for the child(ren) in your care. They will also link you with relevant supports to help your family thrive. 

Anglicare Foster Care Case Practitioners will also work closely with the child’s Department of Child Safety representative and anyone else involved in the child’s care and wellbeing to advocate for their needs or your needs as a carer. 

Case Practitioners also help match children with appropriate foster families. 

Almost anyone who wants to make a difference in a child’s life can become a foster carer.  

Foster carers come from all walks of life and are everyday Australians who are doing extraordinary things. 

Generally, to be a foster carer, you just need to be at least 18 years of age and willing to commit to home safety, background checks and training. 

To see if you are eligible or to start the process of becoming a foster carer, click here. 

In Queensland, long-term foster care can continue until a child turns 18, and many young people remain part of their foster family well into adulthood. With extended post-care support, some young adults who stay living with their carers can keep receiving a carer allowance up to their 21st birthday, while they finish school, training or transition to independence.

Children in foster care can be any age from newborn to 17. While many people first think of babies and young children, there is a strong need for carers who can support older children and teenagers, especially those with more complex needs or who have been in care for a long time.

There isn’t a single “easiest” age to foster – every age has its rewards and challenges. Some carers find younger children easier to manage physically, while others prefer the independence and conversation of older children or teens. The most important factor is matching a child’s needs with your family’s strengths and lifestyle.

There is no fixed limit on the number of children you can foster. The Department of Child Safety and agencies like Anglicare look at your home environment, support network and the needs of each child to decide what is safe and realistic. Many carers look after one or two children, while others care for sibling groups to help brothers and sisters stay together.

Foster carers receive financial support to cover the costs of caring for a child, including the Queensland Government’s Fortnightly Carer’s Allowance. While carers are volunteers, this allowance helps cover daily expenses like clothing and shoes. We’ll clarify financial responsibilities to ensure you have the support you need.