✓ The Guardian AustraliaMoney & Work

Victoria's foster care allowance covers only a quarter of actual cost

Victoria pays foster carers $231 a week. It costs $850 to care for a child properly. Carers pay for medical, dental and clothing themselves.

Why it mattersFoster carers need savings or another job to keep going. Low pay means fewer families willing to foster. More vulnerable children end up in group homes instead.

AustraliaVictorian carers are affected most severely, but underpayment affects foster care systems across all Australian states. Low allowances make it harder to recruit carers in all regions.

✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago