The State Government has launched a statewide campaign to boost foster care recruitment across New South Wales, with an urgent call for carers in regional areas such as New England.
More than 300 children and young people, aged between one and 17, are currently in need of safe and stable foster homes across the state. The shortage is particularly acute for children with disability, adolescents, and sibling groups, who often face extended waits to be placed with carers.
In the New England region, service providers have long warned of a growing gap between the number of children entering the out-of-home care system and the availability of local foster carers. Many children from rural and regional communities are being placed far from home due to the scarcity of placements nearby.
As part of a broader $1.2 billion investment in the child protection system, the NSW Government says the new campaign will transform how foster carers are recruited, trained and supported. It includes outreach via television, social media and print advertising, along with a presence at community events across metro and regional areas.
“Children don’t get a second chance at childhood, so we’re urging everyone this Christmas to consider becoming a foster carer.” said Minister for Families and Communities, Kate Washington.
“It’s time for some myth-busting foster care facts – you can be single, in a same-sex relationship, retired, rent or own your own home, kids just need people who care. Fostering isn’t just long-term, we need short term, respite, emergency, and restoration carers too.
“The Minns Labor Government is backing foster carers, investing $1.2 billion into child protection so we can boost foster care allowances and deliver carers more support.”
The campaign highlights the need for carers of 37 sibling groups across NSW, many of which include children aged five and under. Advocates say keeping siblings together is vital for their emotional wellbeing and long-term development.
Michael Tidball, Secretary of the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), said the campaign aimed to dispel common misconceptions about who can foster.
“Foster carers are at the heart of our efforts to protect and nurture children who need stability. This campaign is about breaking down the myths and barriers that prevent people from volunteering,” he said.
“We need carers for sibling groups, children with disability, and adolescents – and we need people from all backgrounds. Our message is simple: if you have the capacity to care, you have the capacity to change a life.
“DCJ is focussed on better training, more support, and a stronger system so foster carers can focus on what matters most – the children and young people in their care.”
The need for foster carers is especially critical in regional areas where geographic isolation and limited support services often add to the challenges for both children and carers.
As part of the campaign, the government is also promoting the importance of short-term and restoration care—where foster carers support a child while steps are taken to safely reunite them with their families.
In a major policy shift, public sector workers in NSW can now access paid foster carer leave. From 1 January 2026, base foster care payments will also rise by 20 per cent—the first significant increase in two decades.
Renee Leigh Carter, CEO of Carers for Kids NSW, welcomed the initiative.
“I’m pleased to support the NSW Government’s foster care recruitment drive. Carers for Kids NSW supports foster carers, operating a dedicated helpline and providing expert advice, resources, and training for carers.
“We are funded to provide carers with the skills and knowledge they need, so children and young people can grow up with the safety, stability and connection they deserve.”
According to the department, many prospective carers rule themselves out based on outdated assumptions about eligibility. The campaign stresses that carers can be single, retired, LGBTQ+, employed full-time, or renters.
Locals in New England interested in fostering are encouraged to visit nsw.gov.au/fostercare or call 1300 770 240 during business hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).
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