When Melissa first considered becoming a foster carer in NSW, she was overwhelmed. The paperwork, the processes, the emotional weight — it all felt like too much. But once she connected with Creating Links, the path became clearer. Step by step, she discovered a support network that changed not just her life, but the lives of the children she welcomed into her home.
If you’ve ever wondered how foster care works in New South Wales, you’re not alone. The system may seem complex, but it’s built on one simple idea: giving children a safe, stable and supportive environment when they need it most.
👉 Talk to our team about becoming a foster carer
Foster Care in NSW: What It Means and Why It Matters
At its heart, foster care in NSW is about giving children and young people a home when their families are unable to care for them. These placements can be short-term, long-term or even emergency-based. In many cases, the goal is reunification with their birth families. In others, it’s about creating permanent, nurturing environments where children can thrive.
Foster care is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It takes different forms depending on a child’s age, background and emotional needs. In New South Wales, agencies like Creating Links play a central role in recruiting, training and supporting carers throughout the process.
👉 Explore how you can start your fostering journey today
The Foster Care Process: What to Expect as a Beginner
If you’re new to the idea of becoming a carer, the process may feel daunting. But the truth is, you won’t do it alone. From the initial inquiry to training and matching, there’s guidance every step of the way.
Here’s a simplified view of what you can expect:
- Initial enquiry: Reach out to a foster care provider like Creating Links
- Information session: Attend an online or in-person session to learn more
- Assessment and training: Undergo checks, home visits and workshops to prepare
- Approval: Once approved, you’ll be added to the active carer list
- Matching: Children are placed with carers best suited to support them
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being willing. You’ll receive training, 24/7 support and help navigating systems and services.
👉 Join an upcoming info session — book online today
Types of Foster Care: From Emergency to Long-Term Support
Not every foster placement is long-term. In fact, many carers begin by providing respite or emergency care to test the waters.
Here are the main types of foster care you’ll find in NSW:
- Emergency care: Immediate placements, often overnight or a few days
- Short-term care: Weeks or months, with the aim of returning home
- Long-term care: For children who can’t return to their birth families
- Respite care: Short breaks to support other carers or families
- Restoration-focused care: Helping a child transition back home with support
At Creating Links, we work closely with carers to identify the type of placement that fits your capacity, lifestyle and strengths. You don’t have to take on more than you’re comfortable with — we walk with you every step of the way.
👉 Enquire about the type of care that suits your situation
Support for Foster Carers in NSW: You’re Never Alone
Melissa says the best thing about fostering is seeing the growth in the children — but a close second is the support she receives. From caseworkers and counsellors to peer networks and carer training, no one is left to navigate the system solo.
Creating Links offers:
- Ongoing training and development
- 24/7 on-call support
- Regular check-ins and emotional wellbeing resources
- Cultural and disability-specific support, where needed
- Fun family activities and carer recognition events
You’re making a difference — and you deserve a village behind you.
👉 Meet our team and discover the support we offer
Ready to Learn More? Reach Out to Creating Links
Foster care isn’t just about giving a child a home. It’s about changing a life. And often, it changes the carer’s life too.
Whether you’re still exploring or ready to begin, the first step is simply a conversation. We’re here to answer questions, guide you through the process and connect you with real carers who’ve walked the journey before.
👉 Call us or book a chat today — you’re needed
