At any given time in Victoria, there are around 10 000 children and young people living away from their families across the state.
Finding sufficient safe homes for children is an issue in northern Victoria and beyond, as agencies like MacKillop strive to keep kids in their local region, connected to their school, sporting clubs and familiar community.
People become foster carers for a variety of reasons but for lifelong Rochester resident Fiona Chique, the October 2022 floods were a turning point.
“Having just moved back into my home after living out of a suitcase for 18 months, I understand the trauma of being disconnected from my community,” Ms Chique said.
She had been contemplating foster care for some time, but after settling back into her house and reconnecting with her community, the decision felt right.
“With two rooms that aren’t being used, I thought, ‘Why can’t I share this space?’
‘’It was the chance for a new adventure, to provide help and comfort to others in my own locality.
‘’I felt I could put myself in the shoes of these young people, displaced from their homes through no fault of their own.”
With more than 30 years of teaching experience and a thriving career in primary education in Kyabram, Ms Chique is ready to integrate caring into her busy life.
Carers like Ms Chique have the flexibility to choose the type of care they provide —emergency, part-time, short-term or long-term — ensuring fostering fits seamlessly into their lives.
“We treasure the Fionas of this world,” Victorian Foster Carer Recruitment Manager Tania Ferris said.
“Our carers are extraordinary, but they consistently tell us they’re just ordinary people who see a need and decide to help.”
Foster carers come from all walks of life. They can be single, married, in a same-sex relationship, working, retired, renting, or owning a home.
The common thread is the ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for vulnerable children.
MacKillop Family Services supports carers with comprehensive training, a robust network of professionals, and ongoing guidance.
From case managers to therapeutic practitioners, the support ensures both carers and children have the resources they need.
If Fiona’s story resonates with you, MacKillop Family Services invites you to take the first step. Visit mackillop.org.au/fostercare to explore others’ experiences, enquire online, join an information session, or call 1300 791 677.
Becoming a foster carer is more than offering a roof over a child’s head — it’s about creating a home, providing hope, and changing lives.
