Information for current foster and family carers

Foster and Family Carer Development workshops are held in the metropolitan area and provided to country areas via webinars. The aim of the workshops is to support carers and Communities staff to build on their strengths, their areas of interest and their knowledge and skills to provide better support for children in care.
 
Workshop topics are chosen in consultation with the Foster Care Association WA, carers, and staff based on feedback of current needs. These interactive workshops are presented by professionals in their field and encourage participants to actively engage. 

The Department is now catering for these different styles of learning by providing learning materials and opportunities in a range of different modes.

The mode of delivery is outlined in the Foster and Family Carer Development Workshop Calendar. Register to attend by filling out an enrolment form.

The Foster Care Association is an important partner in recruiting, training and supporting foster carers in Western Australia.

OurSPACE WA is a free state-wide counselling service for Department of Communities foster and family carers who require some extra support. 

Kidsport is a Western Australian program that enables eligible children aged 5 to 18 years to participate in community sport by offering them financial assistance of up to $500. In July 2024 this program was expanded to include the biological children of Foster and Family carers. View the media statement.

The Inklings Program supports babies aged six to 18 months who are showing early differences in their social interaction and communication development. In July 2024, a new referral pathway was established to make the service to foster and family carers to better support babies in care. View the media statement.

The Care Team Approach Practice Framework highlights the importance of all members of a child’s care team, including a child’s carer, working together with the child in the centre of their thinking and interactions with each other. Each care team member provides invaluable support and participates in meeting the needs of the child to keep them strong, connected and secure.

The Foster Families Charter of Rights honours carers (foster, family and significant other carers) and acknowledges the important role of all members of a foster family who contribute to the care of children and young people in out-of-home care.

The Statement of Commitment to Foster and Family Carers outlines the guiding principles, roles and responsibilities to support effective partnerships with carers, across the broader sector services, Communities staff, and other key stakeholders. It recognises carers as an essential and respected part of the care team for children and young people.

A guide for carers supporting young people leaving care and transitioning to independence.

Information to help you on your caring journey.

For more information please visit the Who can say OK in WA webpage.

• FASD – Characteristics across the lifespan (external link) 
• Kidsafe - Child car restraint fitting (external link)
• Road Safety Commission
• Mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse
• Red Nose Australia - Safe sleeping practices (external link)