Cafs calls for foster carers as demand grows

CAFS is asking people in the Central Highlands to consider becoming foster carers as demand grows across the region.

The child and family service organisation operates in Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat, Ararat and surrounds, and marked National Foster Care Week (ending tomorrow) by highlighting what it says is an increasing need for safe, stable homes for children and young people.

“Every child deserves to feel safe and supported,” said manager of home based care at Cafs Laura Humphris.

“Right now, many local children are being placed in temporary care and moved frequently, which can be really tough on their wellbeing.

“We’re reaching out to our community to help us change that.”

Cafs says the need is particularly urgent for younger children, with data from the 2024 Foster Carer Census revealing that 67 per cent of children in foster care across Victoria are under the age of 10.

It says many carers are also supporting children with additional needs – 42 per cent care for children with an intellectual disability or impairment, and 20 per cent support children with a physical disability or impairment.

But according to Cafs, foster care continues to be deeply rewarding despite those challenges – the same census found that 86 per cent of carers identified seeing positive growth in the children they care for as the most fulfilling part of their role.

But it also says that nationally the foster care system is under increasing pressure as the number of children in residential care rising by 72 per cent since 2017, reflecting a growing reliance on non-family-based placements due to a decline in foster carer recruitment.

Cafs says this trend is “particularly concerning” for First Nations children, who continue to be significantly overrepresented in out-of-home care.

The organisation is part of a national effort to strengthen the foster care system. Through the Future of Foster Care initiative led by Families Australia and sector partners, advocates are calling for improved support for carers – including better financial assistance, workplace flexibility, and access to healthcare.

“Fostering can be life-changing,” Ms Humphris said.

“At Cafs, we offer comprehensive training and ongoing support, grounded in trauma-informed care models like Step by Step and Trust-Based Relational Intervention.

“Our team is here to ensure carers feel confident, prepared, and supported throughout their journey.”

People older than 21, who have a spare bedroom, and are interested in helping a child, Cafs offers full training, accreditation and support.

To learn more or express an interest, visit cafs.org.au or contact the home based care team on 1800 692 237.