Central Coast residents are being urged to change a child's life and become a foster carer, with the Minns Labor Government launching a local foster carer recruitment drive.
Locals are being urged to open their hearts and homes to children who cannot live with their families, with 47 children across the Central Coast in need of the love and stability that foster care provides.
There is also a local need for more respite carers who provide much needed relief to families and carers with vulnerable children. Becoming a respite carer is a great way to start fostering children and even without a full-time commitment, it can change lives.
This recruitment drive is part of the Minns Labor Government's historic $1.2 billion child protection package, which is investing in improved foster care recruitment, training and support.
In January, the Foster Care Allowance was increased for the first time in 20 years, lifting the base rate by 20 per cent. A foster carer of a typical 14-year-old is now more than $4,500 better off each year.
The Minns Labor Government is also increasing foster carer support through improved training, and more financial and professional assistance, meaning foster carers are better equipped to support the children in their care.
To learn more about becoming a foster or kinship carer, visit nsw.gov.au/fostercare.
Minister for Families and Communities, Kate Washington said:
"Foster care is a life-changing gift of time, support, stability and love. We're asking people on the Central Coast to consider opening your hearts and homes to the vulnerable children who need your help in your community.
"The government is backing foster carers by increasing their allowance and support for the first time in two decades so they can do what they do best - change a child's life."
Minister for the Central Coast, David Harris said:
"Across the Central Coast there are vulnerable children who need the love and stability that foster care provides.
"Our government is making historic reforms to better support people to become foster carers and change the lives of these kids."
Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch said:
"We have big hearts on the Coast. If you've ever considered fostering a child, even just for a weekend, now is a great time to take that first step."
Member for The Entrance, David Mehan said:
"I am proud to be part of the Minns Labor Government which has invested in the first real increase to the foster carer allowance in over 20 years. Investing in foster carers means they can invest in the children they care for."
Secretary of the Department of Communities and Justice, Michael Tidball said:
"Foster carers make a huge difference every day. Their commitment and kindness help change the trajectory of children's lives. We are committed to making sure our carers have the support they need, and we are actively looking to welcome new carers from all backgrounds. If you have room in your heart and your home, please consider joining our foster care community."
