Elsie Adamo
LIMESTONE Coast foster and kinship carers are celebrating a recent payment boost.
The increased support announced last week was the biggest jump in a decade, with carers receiving an extra $50 a fortnight when caring for someone under the age of 16 in the new year.
Mount Gambier foster carer Kate Thomas is currently caring for a baby, in addition to her two biological children with the support of her husband Jeremy, and said the increased payments would help.
“It will make a difference, especially with the costs of caring for a baby, such as nappies and formula, which add up quickly,” she said.
“You definitely don’t do it for the money, but the payments do help to reduce any financial strain and $50 per fortnight will definitely be beneficial.”
Ms Thomas said the government payments covered most costs and other financial support and services were available to assist carers when needed.
“It’s something we do out of love, definitely not for financial gain, but we are thankful support is available,” Ms Thomas said.
“You can’t put a price on welcoming a child into your home and I would absolutely encourage other caring adults to consider foster care.”
ac.care Chief Executive Shane Maddocks said while he welcomes any increased support, more could be done.
“We hope to see further support from government to increase payments to carers and ensure contributions from government are in line with national standards and truly meet the costs of caring for a young person and meeting their diverse needs,” Mr Maddocks said.
“Foster carers are some of the most crucial volunteers in our community dedicated to opening their homes to vulnerable children to protect their welfare and provide stability and opportunities for young people to thrive.
“While this is not done for monetary reward, carers should be adequately supported to meet the costs involved.
“It would also be wonderful to see these payments extended to carers until young people in their care and living in their home reach the age of 25 so they can continue to grow from a secure family base.”
