Have You Ever Sat Down for a Cuppa with an Emergency Foster Carer?
- intouch Magazine
- Nov 2
- 2 min read
They’re ordinary people who take extraordinary steps to change a child’s life.
Right now, across Australia, more than 45,000 children are growing up in out-of-home care. The need for foster carers has never been greater, especially in New South Wales. Yet, every day, people are still stepping forward with open hands and open hearts.
At Key Assets Australia, we see this generosity firsthand. It’s more than good intentions; it’s a deeply considered choice to make a difference in a child’s life.
That’s why we stand beside our carers every step of the way. We provide ongoing training, 24/7 support, a dedicated social worker, financial allowances, and opportunities to connect with a community of carers who truly understand the journey.
Take Jeanine, for example. She recently shared her story in our ‘Cuppa with James’ conversation series with our State Director James Isles. Jeanine became an emergency carer, welcoming a sibling group into her home:
“I had only just become an authorised carer when my two oldest moved in under emergency, short-term orders. A few months later, those orders became long-term, and soon after their little brother joined us too. Suddenly, I had three children. It was never what I expected. But from the moment I met with my social workers, it felt right. I bought a bigger car, moved to a bigger place, and built a home for my family.”
Stories like Jeanine’s remind us that you don’t need to be perfect, you just need to be willing. If you have a spare room, patience, understanding, and a heart big enough to provide a safe, nurturing space, you could change a child’s future.
The journey to becoming a foster carer can take between 3–6 months. We’ll walk with you at every stage:
Contact us – Spend 15–20-minutes on a call with our recruitment team to answer your questions and run through requirements.
Home visit – We’ll meet you in your home.
Application & training – Our two-part training combines group sessions on a weekend and flexible online learning in your own time.
Assessment & approval – A qualified assessor will get to know you, and a panel will review your application for final authorisation by our State Director.
Matching process – Once approved, we’ll connect you with our Support & Retention team and carefully match a child to your strengths and family situation.
At Key Assets Australia, we believe every child deserves a chance to thrive. Could you be the person to give them that chance?
Call us today on 1800 WE CARE (1800 932 273) or start by completing our quick eligibility questionnaire at www.canifoster.com.au.
