Carer Reviews and Authorisation

Why Reviews Happen

Being an authorised carer means meeting certain standards to provide safe and stable care.

These standards are set by the Office of the Children’s Guardian (OCG) and apply to all authorised carers in NSW. They help ensure children and young people receive quality care in safe environments.

You can read more about the Carer Authorisation Standards on the Office of the Children’s Guardian website.

Reviews help to:

• ensure children and young people are safe
• confirm you continue to meet authorisation requirements
• identify training or development needs
• review changes in your household
• check that you feel supported in your role.

They are also an opportunity to give feedback and raise concerns.

Your first-year review

All carers are reviewed at the end of their first year of authorisation — whether authorised by DCJ or a non-government agency.

The review usually involves a meeting with your caseworker. During this meeting you will:

• share feedback to each other
• discuss any challenges or concerns
• review how things are going in placements
• make sure you are meeting the Code of Conduct for authorised carers
• review your Carer Development Plan
• identify training and support needs
• update your Carer Development Plan
• confirm whether anything in your household has changed
• set a date for your next review.

This meeting should feel like a professional conversation about your role and support needs.

Annual reviews

After your first year, carer reviews usually take place every year.

A review may happen sooner if there are significant changes in your circumstances, such as:

• a change in your household
• a placement at risk of breaking down
• concerns raised about safety or compliance

If your circumstances change at any time, tell your caseworker as soon as possible. Early conversations can help prevent bigger issues later.

The five-year authorisation review

Every five years, DCJ carers complete a more detailed review of their authorisation.

As part of this process:

• you and any household member aged 18 or over must complete a NSW criminal record check
• DCJ will check relevant ChildStory records
• you will complete a medical review

These checks help ensure children and young people remain safe.

Your caseworker will explain the process and what documents are required.

If your circumstances change

It is important to tell your caseworker if there are changes in your household or personal circumstances. This might include:

• new people living in your home
• changes in relationships
• health issues
• significant life events

Changes do not automatically affect your authorisation. However, they do need to be recorded and assessed to ensure ongoing safety.

Open communication helps maintain trust and stability.

What happens if authorisation is cancelled?

Sometimes an agency may decide to cancel a carer’s authorisation.

If this happens, you must receive written notice explaining:

• the reasons for the decision
• your right to appeal
• the steps you can take next

Authorisation may be cancelled if:

• you decide to stop being a carer
• a medical review shows you are no longer able to provide adequate care
• there has been a serious breach of the Code of Conduct (PDF 146.18KB)
• an investigation into an allegation recommends cancellation
• your home is assessed as no longer safe or suitable

This can be a very stressful and emotional experience. If you are told your authorisation may be cancelled, you can seek advice and support.

Your caseworker will record any changes to your authorisation status in the NSW Carers Register.

How to appeal a decision

If you disagree with a decision about your authorisation, you can:

1. Request an internal review through your agency.
2. If you are still not satisfied, apply for an independent review with the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).

NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)
Website: ncat.nsw.gov.au
Phone: 1300 006 228

If you are a DCJ carer, you may be able to apply for financial assistance to help with the cost of an appeal. Search “legal assistance for carers” on the DCJ website for more information.

You can also contact your peak body for advice and support:

• Carers for Kids NSW – 1300 782 975
• AbSec – 1800 888 698

Your wellbeing matters

Being a carer is meaningful work. It can also be demanding.

Your review is not only about standards. It is a chance to:

• reflect on your strengths
• identify support you may need
• plan for your development
• talk honestly about challenges

If you ever feel unsure about your role or expectations, speak with your caseworker early. Support is easier to provide before issues grow.