Sharing is Caring highlights the need for more foster carers

Sharing is Caring is an annual initiative raising awareness about the urgent need for more foster carers in our communities. It’s a chance for the Life Without Barriers community to come together, share stories, spark conversations, and inspire action. 

This year, our teams were out in pink droves, running pop-up carer recruitment events, sharing flyers, putting up posters and talking to anyone who is interested in becoming a foster carer. 

Image: Louise wearing a pink Life Without Barriers t-shirt holds up a pizza box with Sharing is Caring stickers.

Teams across all states of Australia embraced the spirit of Sharing is Caring with energy and creativity. From hosting community events and partnering with local businesses and organisations, to fun walks that helped spread the word, every effort was made to raise awareness. 

"For me, the highlights of the campaign were spending time with my family in our own community, proudly representing Life Without Barriers and sharing the message of Sharing is Caring," said Scott Newman, Carer Engagement Officer. 

Image: Scott, wearing a 'Be a foster carer' t-shirt, stands with his back to the camera, facing the ocean.

In some states, iconic landmarks were lit up in bright shades of pink, creating a powerful visual reminder of the importance of foster carers. Across Western Australia, 18 landmarks were lit up for over 60 nights, including Parliament House. In Brisbane, Story Bridge was illuminated in support, and in New South Wales, even the Big Banana turned pink to help raise awareness for foster care. 

"It’s been a wonderful few weeks of connection, visibility, and community spirit as we promoted Sharing is Caring," said Claire Boardman, Regional Director, Child Youth and Family. 

Recognising that each community has unique needs, some teams focused their Sharing is Caring activities on rural areas, where the need for local carers remains high. 

"This year, we focused on some of our rural areas, as these communities often face greater challenges in finding local placements for children who need to stay connected to their schools and communities," said Angela Gownes, Carer Ambassador. 

Image: Foster carers Angela and Matt hosting a stall in Ipswich.

From local businesses to sporting clubs, many organisations lent their voice to help raise awareness of the need for more foster carers in our communities.

The Western Sydney Wanderers were among those who supported the campaign, with Captain Lawrence Thomas giving a special shout-out in his pre-match press conference and amplifying our message in a video shown during a match at half-time.    The Wanderers also generously gifted 120 tickets so our young people and carers could enjoy the game together and be part of the excitement. 

"For our young people, being part of the Wanderers community isn’t just about football, it’s about connection, aspiration, and experiencing what it feels like to be part of a family," said Lorna Genoud, Education Consultant. 

Share your world 

With nearly 50,000 children unable to live safely at home in Australia, we are always looking for foster carers. 

"It is so important that we find more foster carers who can provide a safe, stable, and loving home for these children," said Steven Mead, Carer Recruitment and Engagement. 

"The love and support of a foster carer can help change the trajectory of a child’s life and have a big impact on their health and wellbeing." 

Image: Life Without Barriers Tasmanian staff and carers holding pink balloons and a 'Share Your World' banner, smiling at the camera.

Across Australia, the need for foster carers continues to grow, particularly for children with complex needs, sibling groups, and young people from diverse backgrounds. 

"Whether it’s caring for siblings who need to stay together, supporting children with complex needs, or providing short-term or emergency care, every type of foster care plays a vital role," said Marloes Blonk, Foster Carer and Home Hub Provider. 

Image: Rocks painted in pink as part of a Sharing is Caring activity.

Who can be a carer? 

Foster care is about providing a safe and supportive home for children and young people. It might be for a night, a week, a year or until a child reaches adulthood. 

"Fostering can come in many forms. Some children may need you to provide a safe space for a couple of nights or a weekend each month, while others may need long term care," said Grant Meredith, Area Manager, Family Based Care. 

Image: Life Without Barriers Newcastle team wearing pink and holding up 'Sharing is Caring' flyers.

No two children or families are the same, so at Life Without Barriers we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. We welcome foster carers from all walks of life; any gender, sexuality, culture, or relationship status. Whether you’re single or partnered, working or retired, with or without children of your own, what matters most is your ability to care. 

"There is a place for everyone who wants to make a difference. Young or older, single people or couples, anyone who has the heart to care and the desire to give children a better start in life," said Marloes. 

Can I be a carer? 

Image: Life Without Barriers staff taking part in a class at BFT Shepperton to promote Sharing is Caring.

Support for carers  

It can be difficult to comprehend the experiences children bring with them, so it is important that carers feel supported and confident in their role. Our foster carers are never alone in their caring journey because our Foster Care team will be there every step of the way, with 24/7 support, comprehensive training and expert guidance.   

"As a foster carer you can expect to be linked in with a Case Manager who supports in home visits at least every month. Our care team also consists of Therapeutic Specialists,  Casework Managers, Cultural Specialists and Area Managers, all of which will support the child and foster carer to various degrees," said Grant. 

Image: Life Without Barriers staff hosting a stall at a pickleball event.

Become a foster carer 

If you’ve been thinking about starting your foster care journey, there’s no better time than now.  

"The rewards of being a foster carer are endless. You can be an amazing part of a child’s life, making a huge difference that could influence them forever," Amy Nelson, carer in Brisbane for Life Without Barriers. 

"Every child deserves a safe, stable, and nurturing home, and we’re incredibly grateful to those who step forward to provide that care," said Claire. 

Read more stories from care here. 

Image: Life Without Barriers staff taking part in a zumba class to promote Sharing is Caring.