Blue cards for foster or kinship carers
If you are a foster or kinship carer you must hold a valid blue card.
Adult household members of an approved carer must also hold a valid blue card.
Who needs a blue card?
You need a blue card if you are:
- A foster carer
- Kinship carer
- An adult household member of an approved carer aged 18 or over.
Turning 18
If you are an existing household member who is turning 18, you can apply for a blue card from age 17 years and 9 months.
If you apply before turning 18, you can continue living in the home while your application is being assessed.
Regular visitors
Regular visitors to the home of an approved carer may also need a blue card.
This depends on:
- the type of contact they have with children
- how often they visit.
Approved carers should speak with their Child Safety Officer to determine whether a regular visitor needs a blue card.
Foster and kinship care support
Find out more about blue cards and exemption cards for foster or kinship carers.
If you are an existing foster or kinship carer, visit Connecting with Carers hub to find general support.
If you’re interested in applying—learn how to get involved.
Foster and kinship resources
- Thinking of becoming a foster and kinship carer?
- Your Blue Card journey for Foster and Kinship Carers
- Child Safety Officer information sheet
- Foster or kinship care easy-read fact sheet
- Foster and kinship carer video
More information
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