Foster Carer Interim Report for Wave 6

The Foster Carer Interim Report for Wave 6 (March 2026) highlights a critical gap between the remarkable dedication of foster carers, 83% of whom intend to continue their roles and a systemic warning sign that current support levels are unsustainable. Despite their unwavering commitment to children, carers face profound challenges: 94% pay for children's needs out-of-pocket, 68.5% find allowances insufficient, and 85% report that fostering has negatively impacted their own earning capacity. This financial strain is compounded by systemic instability, as 55% of carers were assigned new caseworkers within a six-month period, leading to only 38% satisfaction with caseworker support and contributing to a personal wellbeing score (66) that falls below the Australian national average. Ultimately, while carers persevere out of love for the children, over half would not recommend the role to others, driving researchers to advocate for urgent reforms such as higher allowances, better caseworker retention, and increased respite services to ensure the health and stability of both foster families and the children they serve.