Some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people are unable to live safely at home due to challenges or risks within their family environment. The Goolburri Foster and Kinship Care (FKC) service supports these children by connecting them with safe, caring homes that respect their culture, identity, and connection to country and community. We are always seeking Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander carers who can open their hearts and homes to children in need of stability, love and cultural belonging.
Our Purpose
Our service provides culturally informed out-of-home care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people across the Goolburri footprint regions. We aim to ensure every child remains connected to family, culture, and country, and that they are cared for by people who understand and value their heritage.
Types of Carers
There are several ways to provide care, depending on your situation and availability.
Foster Carer
Foster Care includes caring for a child or young person who is not related to you, in your own home. Foster carers provide a safe, nurturing environment where children can heal, grow, and thrive.
Kinship Carer
Kinship Care is provided by a relative, family friend, or community member who has a close relationship with the child. This type of care supports children to remain connected to their extended family, language group, and community.
Respite Carer
Respite Care offers short-term support for other carers or families. This may involve caring for a child for a weekend, a few days, or during planned breaks to provide ongoing stability and support.
Who Can Be a Carer?
We encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, couples and families to consider becoming carers. In line with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Placement Principle and the Child Protection Act 1999, Goolburri ensures that children are placed with members of their family, community or other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander carers whenever possible. You don’t need to be perfect – just patient, caring and committed to helping a child feel safe, values, and connected to their culture.
Our Commitment to Carers
Caring for children and young people is a shared journey. Goolburri provides ongoing cultural, emotional and practical support to help carers succeed in their role. We assist with:
- Care planning
- Placement support
- Guidance around emotional and behavioral needs
- Regular contact
- Casework Support
- Cultural advice
- Connection to community networks
Cares also receive a government-funded allowance to assist with the cost of caring for a child, including food, clothing, household supplies, education experience, and recreation. Additional financial support is available for children with high or complex needs.
Expression of Interest
If you would like to learn more about becoming a Foster, Kinship, or Respite Carer, we’d love to hear from you. Contact our office for more information or to express your interest in joining our network of careers who are making a difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
Fees
This program is fully funded by the government, ensuring eligible families can access support at no cost. Please contact our team for further details.
Referrals
Referrals to the Goolburri Foster and Kinship Care Service are made through the relevant Child Safety Service Centers within the Department of Communities – Child Safety and Disability Services.
Can I Become A Career?
Individuals or families who wish to care for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander children under the Child Protection Act 1999.
Contact
Mon-Thu 8:30am – 5:00pm
Fri 8:30am – 4:30pm
Closed weekends and public holidays
Call: 1300 GAHACL
Email: [email protected]
