Queensland, we need foster carers like you!

Have you ever thought about becoming a foster carer?

More Queenslanders are needed to help vulnerable children safe so they can reach their full potential, by signing up to become a foster carer.

Child Safety Minister Shannon Fentiman encouraged all Queenslanders to think about opening their hearts and homes to children in need across the state

Ms Fentiman kicked off the launch of a new foster carer recruitment campaign in time for Foster and Kinship Care Week at Roma Street Parklands today.

Ms Fentiman said she wanted to see an extra 1000 foster carers sign up across the state as part of the first stage of the $2.6 million campaign.

“Our foster and kinship carers are some of the most dedicated people I’ve ever met,” she said.

“But we need more people to take on this vital role, and I would encourage everyday Queenslanders to consider whether they could take on this role.

“Foster and kinship carers change the lives of some of our most vulnerable children and young people, children who can’t live safely at home.

“They are the backbone of the child protection system, and I cannot thank them enough for the work they do to improve the lives of young Queenslanders each and every day.

But Ms Fentiman said there was always more room for people who wanted to play a part in keeping Queensland’s children and young people safe.

The foster carer recruitment campaign will include newspaper and digital advertisements rolling out from today.

Ms Fentiman said a series of videos had been developed that profile some wonderful foster carers sharing their stories about what foster caring means for them.

“What better way to hear about the benefits of foster caring than from dedicated carers themselves,” she said.

“It’s not always an easy job and there can definitely be challenges along the way.

“But, when I meet with foster carers right across Queensland they all tell me how rewarding their role is.”

“The campaign also highlights that carers come from all walks of life.

“But the one thing they all have in common is a place in their hearts for a child who needs love and understanding.” 

Ms Fentiman said the Palaszczuk Government was also boosting support to foster and kinship carers.

“This includes providing at least $2000 per year towards out-of-pocket childcare expenses for children aged one to five,” she said.

“This will support our hardworking foster and kinships carers across the state, and will also help attract more working Queenslanders to take on the invaluable job of fostering.

“We will also continue our efforts to recruit more foster carers throughout the year.”

People considering foster care can call Foster Care Queensland on 1300 550 877 or visit www.qld.gov.au/fostercare for more information.