Brodie and John

Meet Brodie and John

John and Brodie are like so many other families in Australia. And like many other families, they were at a point in their life where they knew they wanted to be parents but weren’t quite sure how to make this a reality. Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community, having biological children was not an immediate option, and they were aware of the number of children that needed a home – so they turned to foster care.

Image: Same-sex male foster carer couple in their lounge room smiling

How did you decide fostering was the right option for you?

John was already familiar with the foster care system in New South Wales as his mother had been a foster carer his whole life.

“The fact that there are already so many kids out there that need a loving and safe home, a family and that we could provide that for them, is why we turned to foster care,” said Brodie.

What has your foster care experience been like as a same-sex couple?

Life Without Barriers was not the first agency Brodie and John turned to for foster care; in fact – they had almost given up on being carers when they heard a Life Without Barriers ad on the radio.

“Attending information nights with other agencies, we were always the only same-sex couple and always felt like we were not meant to be. Our applications were rejected several times. That was until we came across Life Without Barriers. We have felt like a part of the family since the very first phone call,” said John.

Brodie and John’s community are also all on board and love to help.

“They love it; they have always supported us. Every child we have welcomed into our home has also been welcomed into theirs,” said Brodie.

Are there any moments from your foster care journey that stand out?

With Life Without Barriers, Brodie and John have already cared for seven children, including siblings. Brodie said each has created beautiful new memories.

How do you create a welcoming environment for the children in your care?

“You just have to welcome them into your home, your life, your routine like they have always been there and are not going to leave. You need to treat them like your own family, your own children,”

“There could be 1000 reasons as to why that child is coming to you for respite. Welcoming them into your home as part of the family is going to make them feel appreciated, wanted, loved, safe and secure.”

Breaking down barriers can often be achieved through fun games as well, Brodie shared.

“Pre-lockdown, we loved taking the foster kids and teens to bowling and putt-putt golf. We find these two activities give the kids a little friendly competition and helps them bond,” said Brodie.

What advice do you have for people considering becoming foster carers?

Being a foster dad can seem a little daunting at first. Brodie shared that getting as much information as they could has really helped them on their journey.

“Do your research, connect with other foster carers and attend information nights.”

"Just do it. It’s the best thing we have ever done; it has given our lives purpose," said John.