Announcement

Carer Payments Are Increasing | FKCANT
Announcement · Effective 1 July 2026

A win for foster and kinship carers across the Northern Territory

Minister Robyn Cahill OAM has announced increases to the NT Foster and Kinship Carer Allowance and the establishment payment — a direct result of carers speaking up.

Announced by
Minister Robyn Cahill OAM
Portfolio
Children & Families, Child Protection
Takes effect
1 July 2026
What's changing

Two concrete increases, effective now

Establishment payment, per new placement
$200
$1,000
Previous rate
From 1 July 2026
▲ 5x increase (excludes respite placements)
Carer Allowance rate
+10%
Increase to Carer Allowance rates, applied from 1 July 2026.
▲ Applies to all current carer allowance rates

Recognising the invaluable role carers play

FKCANT is delighted to share this news with every foster and kinship carer across the Territory. These increases represent a significant investment in supporting volunteer carers, and recognise the invaluable role you play in providing safe, stable and nurturing homes for children and young people.

From 1 July 2026: Carer Allowance rates increase by 10%, and the establishment payment rises from $200 to $1,000 for every new placement (excluding respite placements).

FKCANT warmly welcomes this announcement. Over many years, and particularly throughout the past 18 months, we have continued to advocate for improved financial support for carers through direct engagement with carers, government, sector stakeholders and decision-makers.

We sincerely thank Minister Robyn Cahill OAM and the Northern Territory Government for listening to carers and recognising the increasing costs associated with providing quality care to children and young people.

Most importantly, we want to thank every foster and kinship carer who has shared their experiences, participated in consultations, completed surveys, and spoken with us about the challenges of caring.

Your voices have been instrumental in helping achieve this positive outcome.

Carers made this happen

1

Shared their experiences

Carers spoke openly about the day-to-day realities of caring for children and young people.

2

Took part in consultations

Direct engagement with FKCANT, government and sector stakeholders shaped this outcome.

3

Completed surveys

Data from carers backed up the case for better financial support across the Territory.

While this announcement is an important step forward, FKCANT remains committed to advocating for further improvements that strengthen support for foster and kinship carers across the Northern Territory.

You can learn more about FKCANT's support and advocacy services here. The updated Department of Children and Families payment information is available here.

Learn more

Read about FKCANT's support and advocacy services, or check the updated Department of Children and Families payment rates.

Kind regards,
Foster and Kinship Carers Association NT
Your Peak Body in the Northern Territory