To begin we ask prospective carers to attend an information session, either a group or individual session. You will meet the local support team and can ask any questions you may have about becoming a foster carer.

Applicants are asked to complete a Police Check and a Working with Children Check. Everyone in your household will need to complete these checks too. Carers will also need to complete a Health Check, provide us with character referees and write and share their life story.

All carers are required to complete our 'Shared Lives' Training which is roughly 16 hours during the application process. We deliver this online, face-to face, individually or as part of a group, whatever works best for you.

After training, one of our local foster care support staff will meet with you to ensure you are ready and capable to care for a child or young person. This will include visiting your household to ensure the home environment is safe, and meeting with all household members, including any children.

Our accreditation panel is made up of representatives from Anglicare Victoria as well as at least one representative from The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing. The panel will review your application and assessment report, and make a decision about your accreditation.

Once you have been accredited, we will contact you when we have a child or young person requiring a placement. The final decision to accept any placement or not, is always yours. And we’ll be available if you need support 24/7.