Understanding the Foster Care Application Process
Your journey starts with understanding. Let's take the first step together.
Beginning your foster care journey is a big decision, and it's natural to have questions about what the application process involves. At Anglicare, we want you to know that this process is not designed to test or judge you. It's a supportive, collaborative pathway where our team walks alongside you at every step.
You don't need to be perfect. What matters is your openness, willingness to learn and commitment to providing a safe, loving home for a child in need.
Initial enquiry and first conversations
Registering interest
When you're ready to explore fostering, you can submit an online enquiry form or give Anglicare a call. This first step is simply a way to start the conversation. There's no commitment at this stage, just the chance to ask questions and learn more about foster care.
Attending an optional information session
Information sessions are a relaxed way to discover more about the types of foster care, what's involved in becoming a carer and the support available. Most people attending feel just like you might - curious, hopeful and sometimes unsure. That's completely normal.
At an information session, you'll:
- Learn about different types of foster care
- Find out what's involved in becoming a carer
- Hear about the training and support available
- Have the chance to ask questions in a relaxed setting
- Hear from other foster carers
Exploring guidance materials
At this stage, you'll be offered helpful resources like booklets, videos and links to trusted information. These materials give you the space to reflect, learn and start preparing in your own time. The journey begins with understanding, not paperwork.
Training and preparation
Before welcoming a child into your home, you'll be supported through structured training designed to help you feel confident and prepared. Anglicare's training is a core part of the foster care journey - not a test, but a space to learn and grow alongside others considering fostering.
Training covers essential topics such as:
- understanding trauma
- supporting children's emotional needs
- working with birth families
- navigating the practical responsibilities of being a foster carer
You don't need prior experience - just an open mind and a willingness to learn. Our team walks with you every step of the way, ensuring you feel ready before moving forward.
Application and documentation
What you'll need to provide
You'll be asked to provide some key documents, and Anglicare will guide you through each step:
- Proof of identity
- Working With Children Check (for all household members over 18)
- Details of personal referrees
- Health information from your GP
- Details of your household and living arrangements.
Why these checks matter
All assessments are in place to keep children safe and ensure the best fit between carers and children. They help us understand how to support you too. Everyone who applies to foster is required to go through this process, regardless of what agency they foster through.
As a leader in foster care for over 50 years, Anglicare has supported thousands of carers through these steps. You'll be guided every step of the way, with care and understanding. This process isn't about judgment. It's about working together to plan for a positive and safe future for the child in your care.
Assessment and home visits
What to expect from home visits
During the assessment stage, our friendly and supportive assessors will visit your home on multiple occasions. These visits are spaced throughout the process so we can:
- Have relaxed conversations with you and your household about fostering, your motivations and expectations
- Check safety and suitability of your home environment over time
- Support you to make any adjustments that might help you feel confident and prepared
Each visit is an opportunity for us to walk beside you as you explore fostering. It's not a test, but a collaborative conversation tailored to you and your family.
Personal reflection and readiness
The assessment process is a journey that encourages you to reflect on your motivations, your boundaries and what fostering could look like for your family. It's okay to feel vulnerable or unsure during this stage. Honesty and transparency at this stage helps build a strong foundation for fostering.
Support throughout the process
From your first enquiry to welcoming a child into your home, Anglicare's case managers and training staff are here to guide and encourage you. We provide pre-placement and ongoing training, and connect you with practical and emotional support so you feel confident and equipped.
Talk to our team - we're here to guide you.
Inspired by the gospel of reconciliation in Jesus Christ, Anglicare's vision for reconciliation is a nation in which Australia's First Peoples are restored in dignity, respect, empowerment and opportunity.