Do kinship carers need to be formally assessed?

Yes. All kinship carers go through a formal assessment process to ensure the child's safety and help identify the support you may need.

Is kinship care permanent?

Kinship care may be short-term or long-term, depending on the child's situation and court decisions. We'll talk with you about what's involved.

Will I get financial support to care for the child?

Yes. Kinship carers receive a carer allowance to help cover the cost of raising the child.

Can I continue to work while being a kinship carer?

Yes. Many kinship carers work full-time or part-time. We'll help you consider what's manageable and provide support along the way.

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Kinship Care

When a child can't live at home, being cared for by someone they already know and trust can make all the difference. Kinship care allows relatives or close family friends to step in and provide a safe, stable home. This minimises disruption and helps the child stay connected to their culture, community and identity.

If you're already part of a child's life, you might be the steady, loving presence they need. And you won't be alone. Anglicare is here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Talk to our team about becoming a kinship carer

What is kinship care?

Key differences from traditional Foster Care

Unlike general foster care, kinship care is provided by someone the child already knows, such as a grandparent, aunt, uncle, older sibling or family friend. This emotional connection often makes the transition into care less traumatic and helps preserve the child's sense of identity and belonging. Kinship care can also help maintain familiar routines, culture and community ties.

Why kinship care matters for a child's wellbeing

Children in kinship care often feel safer and more secure because they remain in familiar surroundings. Staying connected to family, culture and language supports their emotional wellbeing and reduces the stress of separation. It's a powerful way to protect a child's place in the world and their connection to others.

Who can become a kinship carer?

You don't need to have formal qualifications or parenting experience to become a kinship carer. If you already have a strong relationship with a child in need, and can offer them a safe, stable home, you may be eligible.

Kinship carers come from many different backgrounds and experiences. Some are working full-time, others are retired or have family commitments of their own.

What matters most is your connection to the child and your willingness to care.

Kinship carer assessment process

All kinship carers go through a formal assessment to ensure the child's safety and wellbeing. This includes home safety checks, conversations about your capacity to care, and identifying what support you may need. The process is respectful, transparent and designed to help you feel informed and prepared, not judged.

Learn more about the foster care application process

Support for kinship carers

Types of financial support available

Anglicare provides financial assistance to help with the costs of raising a child. This will include regular carer payments, possibly reimbursements for additional services and access to other resources when needed.

Ongoing training and peer networks

You'll have access to trauma-informed training, tailored resources and the encouragement of other carers walking a similar journey. Anglicare also works with local churches equipped to provide practical support and wrap-around care.

24/7 support

Kinship carers are supported by a dedicated case manager who understands your situation. They also have access to 24/7 on call phone support.

Why choose Anglicare for your kinship care journey?

Anglicare has decades of experience supporting carers and families across NSW. Our team understands the unique dynamics of kinship care and works in partnership with you to ensure the best outcomes for children. From training and financial support to case manager guidance and community connection, we're committed to supporting children and helping you thrive as a carer.

How to get started as a kinship carer

If you have been approached about kinship care, please consider reaching out. You don't have to navigate this alone. Our friendly team will guide you through the process and help you access the support you need.

Start your journey with Anglicare today.

Talk to our team about becoming a kinship carer.

Frequently asked questions about kinship care

Anglicare acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the original and ongoing custodians of the lands and waters on which we live and work.

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.