First Nations parents, carers and kin

Parent Pathways offers culturally safe and free services for First Nations parents, carers and kin.

On this page:

Parent Pathways is a free and voluntary service that supports you and your family. If you’re raising kids under 6, we are here to walk alongside you to help you work towards your goals.

It’s delivered by trusted local providers and gives you support that fits around your life with no pressure, no judgement.

You’ll yarn with a mentor who listens and helps you work towards your goals, whether that’s parenting, housing, study, healing or getting ready for work.

It’s your journey, your way, with support that works around you and welcomes your whole family.

Eligibility

If you’re a First Nations parent, carer or kin, you can access Parent Pathways if you have a child under 6, live in an area where there is a Parent Pathways provider, you’re not currently in paid work and are getting one of these payments from Centrelink:

  • Parenting Payment
  • Carer Payment
  • Special Benefit.

If you are not getting any Centrelink payments, you could still be eligible. If you’re a First Nations parent, carer or kin, you left school early and don’t have a Year 12 certificate, or you’re under 22, it’s worth having a chat.

First Nations artwork

This artwork reflects a parent being supported on their journey towards their future goals. The future shines bright, built on guidance, support, listening and mentoring to achieve goals and aspirations.

"Buwabarra Birrang" meaning Parent Journey, by Dalmarri artist Trevor Eastwood of the Ngamba people on the Barwon River, part of Kamiloroi country.

This artwork has been created to reflect the experiences and aspirations of First Nations parents, carers and kin supported through Parent Pathways. It represents connection, choice and being supported to follow your own pathways toward the future.

This artwork reflects a parent being supported on their journey towards their future goals. The future shines bright, built on guidance, support, listening and mentoring to achieve goals and aspirations.

Parent Pathways emphasises a commitment to empowering First Nations parents, carers and kin with culturally safe guidance and resources, enabling them to work towards their personal and professional goals.

Resources for First Nations parents, carers and kin

View these resources online or download and print them to share with your community.

Listen to information about Parent Pathways in your language

Real stories from First Nations parents, carers and kin

First Nations parents, carers and kin share their stories about what support through Parent Pathways has looked like for them.

Finding her power: Rosemary’s journey to a brighter future

When Rosemary joined Parent Pathways, she was determined to create stability for her family.

Find out more about Rosemary's journey

Acknowledgement of Country

The Department of Employment of Workplace Relations acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, waters and community.

We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the Elders past and present.

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.