Foster care allowance: how it works
The foster care allowance, often called the care allowance, is money paid to foster and kinship carers to help meet the day to day costs of caring for a child. It is set and paid by each state or territory child protection department, not by the Australian Government, so the rules and rates vary depending on where you live.
State and territory child protection departments
NSW Government (DCJ), care allowance rates
Who pays it and why
Each state and territory runs its own out of home care system under its child protection framework. The department, or an agency working with it, pays the allowance to help cover the everyday costs of raising a child in care. It is a contribution towards the child's needs rather than income or a wage for the carer, and it is generally not treated as taxable income.
How much it is
The amount usually depends on the child's age, with older children attracting a higher rate, and it can increase where a child has extra needs. Because each department sets its own rates and adjusts them over time, the figure differs across the country. Always check the current rate with your local department.
How to get it
You generally need to be an authorised or approved carer with a child formally placed in your care through the department or an agency. Speak to your caseworker or agency about your entitlement, when payments start, and any extra financial support that may apply to your situation.
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