This month’s question is answered by Sheree Gee, Foster Care Engagement Team Leader at Brophy Family and Youth Services.  

Question: 

What if I make an enquiry and then realise it’s not the right time for me to become a foster carer? 

Victorian foster care agencies all use the same training framework, it's called Step by Step. It’s a gradual, supported process where we take things one step at a time and walk alongside you. At each stage, you can choose to continue, pause, or withdraw, whatever feels right for you. It’s completely okay if now isn’t the right time. It may be something you return to in the future. 

Foster care is flexible because people’s lives and circumstances change. For some, short-term or long-term care isn’t possible right now, and that’s completely valid. Others find that respite care (where people provide a child's full-time foster carers with a break - usually one weekend a month) may fit more easily into their life at certain times, but there is no expectation to move into any form of care if you’re not ready. 

The best next step is simply to have an open conversation with your local foster care agency or Fostering Connections. They can answer your questions, explain the early stages, and help you explore at a pace that suits you. There’s no pressure to decide, just space to learn.

If you have a question about foster care that you would like answered by an expert, email us or send us DM via our Facebook or Instagram.