Hear from our foster carers
Frequently asked questions
How much do foster carers in Queensland get paid?
Foster carers in Queensland receive a government carer allowance, not a wage. As of January 2025, base caring allowances range from about $623 to $729 per fortnight depending on the child’s age, with extra start-up and establishment payments and an annual extracurricular activities boost. Anglicare will talk through the current rates and any loadings that may apply before you accept a placement.
How many foster carers are in Queensland?
Queensland has thousands of foster and kinship carer families, but still not enough homes for every child who needs one. Recent oversight data shows around 5,800 foster and kinship carer families across the state, supporting many of the roughly 12,000 children in care. Anglicare works alongside many of these carers and is continually recruiting new households willing to offer safe, stable homes.
How much is a foster carer's allowance?
Carer allowance amounts vary with each child’s age, needs and placement type. The base allowance is designed to cover everyday costs such as food, clothing, transport and school expenses, with higher rates or additional supports available for children with complex needs. When you enquire with Anglicare, we’ll provide a personalised breakdown of likely allowances for your household and circumstances.
What is long term foster care in Queensland?
In Queensland, long-term foster care usually means a child is expected to stay with a carer for several years, often until adulthood, rather than a short, temporary placement. The focus is on providing stability, strong attachments and a sense of “belonging” while maintaining safe family and cultural connections where possible.