Before you become a kinship carer
When children can’t stay at home, the best option is for their extended family or community to care for them. This is known as kinship care.
Kinship carers look after children in their own homes. They are often a relative, close friend, or a member from the child or young person's community. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, this may include someone from their community or language group, or compatible group.
Kinship carers can provide care for emergencies, respite, or short to long term periods.
Before applying to become a kinship carer, think about how it will impact your life, lifestyle, family and friends.
Family caring for family is a helpful guide to help you discuss if kinship care is right for your household.