Family Spirit NSW is a specialised foster care, guardianship, and adoption agency operating across the greater Sydney metropolitan region. Formed as a partnership between CatholicCare Sydney and Marist180, it helps vulnerable children and young people find safe, stable, and nurturing homes.
We support children and young people to stay safely with their families where possible, provide nurturing foster care when needed, and help them transition to independent adulthood. We also support foster carers and deliver adoption services.
Our services include support to help families stay together, foster care (including respite, emergency, kinship, short-term and long-term), guardianship and adoption. We also support young people to transition from care to living independently.
Looking for helpful information about foster care, parenting, adoption, or supporting children and young people? Our resources provide practical guides, expert advice, and useful tools to support prospective carers, current carers, families, and the wider community.
Join our community and help make a difference. Whether you're interested in becoming a foster carer, providing emergency care, or joining our team, there are many ways to get involved.
The experience of foster caring can be rich, vibrant and joyous – and it’s unique for everyone.
Family Spirit carers tell us that being a foster carer is positive, fulfilling and full of wonder. Many say that one of their greatest joys is playing a part in the achievements of the children in their care. Register to join one of our upcoming online information sessions to find out how to become a foster carer.
Whether you want to offer temporary support or eventually become an adoptive parent, our team can guide you through every stage of your caring journey.
To learn more about how to become a foster carer and the foster experience, join one of our upcoming information sessions.
In our informal, 1hr sessions, you can hear about:
Different care options available
Application process – how to foster a child
Fostering and Adoption
Roles and responsibilities
Support, development and training
Real family experiences
Exploring Fostering and Open Adoption
When you decide to become a foster parent, the primary focus is on providing safety while working towards returning a child to their birth family. However, some situations may require permanent legal care. If long-term reunification is not possible, families interested in lifelong legal arrangements can explore our dedicated adoption services to understand the distinct assessment and court processes involved.
Opening your home to a child or young person requires continuous guidance, practical resources and reliable assistance. When you become a foster care parent, Family Spirit provides dedicated local caseworkers, 24/7 emergency support lines and comprehensive ongoing training. We walk alongside every household, ensuring you feel confident, prepared and fully valued at every step of your fostering path across New South Wales.
Book a One-on-One Information Session
One-on-one information sessions are also available at a time that suits you – call 13 18 19 for more information.
* Once your booking is confirmed, you will be contacted with login details for the session.
At Family Spirit we want to hear from you. Sharing your compliments, suggestions, and complaints is key to ensuring we continue to provide the best possible care and service, while also safeguarding the wellbeing of the children and young people in our care.
We encourage you to share your feedback with us directly.
Many current carers have their own biological children living at home. Our team carefully matches placements to ensure the well-being and comfort of every child in your household.
Do I need to own my home?
You do not need to own a property to provide foster care. Renting is perfectly acceptable, provided
How long does the approval process take?
The assessment and training stages generally take between three to six months. This comprehensive timeframe ensures you are completely prepared for the responsibilities ahead.
Will I be paid?
While this is a volunteer role, carers receive a tax-free financial allowance. This payment covers the daily costs of raising a child, including food, clothing and educational expenses.
Can I choose the age of the child?
Carers can specify their preferences regarding the age and gender of the child they feel best equipped to support.
