What is it like to foster a teenager?

Foster Care | Posted May 5, 2026

Teenage Foster Care: What to Expect and Why It Matters

When most people think of foster care, they often picture younger children. But teenagers make up a large and often overlooked group in the foster care system. Across Australia, many young people aged 13 to 17 need safe, supportive homes and positive adult role models.

Fostering teenagers gives these young people a second chance – at stability, belonging, and a brighter future. And while fostering teens may come with its own challenges, the rewards are just as powerful – if not more.

Is fostering teenagers harder than fostering younger children?

Actually, fostering teenagers can have many benefits:

You can relate and communicate well with teenagers in foster care
While teens may have complex emotions, they’re also funny, insightful, and full of potential. They’re just looking for someone who sees that in them.
Teenagers in foster care are more independant
Teens are also more independent and so can be a great fit for some carers. They can take themselves to school, can make a sandwich and communicate their needs.
Teenagers can acknowledge and show gratitude for the impact you have made on their life
It’s never too late to make a difference as a foster carer. Many teens in care thrive once they find the right home and support. They have their whole adult life ahead and need stable, caring adults to help prepare them for it. Many teenage foster children will continue relationships with foster carers well into adulthood, acknowledging and appreciating the support you provided at this important stage of their life.

Why should I foster a teenager?

Teenagers in foster care are at a critical stage in their development. They’re learning who they are, navigating peer pressure, school, identity, independence, and sometimes – past trauma. When they enter foster care, it’s often because of unsafe or unstable circumstances that left them without the consistent support all teens need.

Teenage foster care provides a home base – a steady, safe place where teens can begin to rebuild trust, learn life skills, and feel valued. More than anything, they need someone who believes in them and sees their potential.

When given a stable environment, teenagers in foster care can:

Re-engage with education and plan for the future
Form healthy relationships with adults and peers
Heal from past experiences through guidance and therapeutic support
Learn practical life skills for adulthood like cooking, riding a bike and saving money
Build confidence and self-esteem

What can I expect when fostering teenagers?

Fostering teens isn’t about perfection – it’s about connection. Many carers say that once the relationship builds, it becomes one of the most meaningful experiences they’ve ever had.

Here’s what to expect when fostering teens:

You’ll need patience and understanding
Teenagers may take time to trust you. Some have experienced rejection or instability, so they may keep their guard up. That’s normal. With consistency and care, most begin to open up in their own time.
You’ll have meaningful conversations
Teenagers are capable of deep, thoughtful conversations. They may ask big questions, explore identity, or open up about their past when they’re ready. Carers often say this is where the connection truly grows.
You’ll watch them grow into young adults
There’s something incredible about seeing a young person develop independence, responsibility, and resilience – all because they finally had someone in their corner.
There will be challenges – but you’re not alone
Teenage foster care isn’t always easy. There may be moments of testing boundaries, emotional outbursts, or anxiety. But with the right support and training, you’ll be equipped to handle these moments – and you’ll have a whole team behind you.

What support is available for fostering teenagers?

No one fosters alone. Agencies like OzChild that work with carers of teenagers in foster care provide a wide range of support so carers feel confident and backed every step of the way.

You’ll have access to:

Training specifically focused on adolescence, trauma, and communication
24/7 support in case things get tough or you need advice
Therapeutic services for the young person and yourself
Financial assistance to help cover costs like food, clothing, and education
Ongoing learning opportunities to build your confidence and skills
Peer support groups with other carers who understand the journey

Whether it’s your first placement or you’ve cared for multiple young people, there’s always someone you can call for help or encouragement.

Is fostering a teenager right for me?

If you’ve ever considered fostering, or are looking for a way to give back that truly matters, fostering teenagers could be the perfect fit for you. Teenagers need patient, steady adults who will give them a chance – not to fix everything, but to walk alongside them as they figure things out.

You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to show up, be consistent, and care.

Find out more about becoming a foster carer and the types of foster care offered in your area.

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