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Do I have to engage in Parent Pathways?
No, the service is completely voluntary and free. If you choose to engage in Parent Pathways, you can also choose to leave, take a break or come back at any time without your payments being affected.
What is considered paid employment for Parent Pathways?
Paid employment covers any work where you are receiving a wage or a salary.
This includes:
- full time
- part time
- casual
- self-employment
- contract
- seasonal work.
It also includes paid and unpaid maternity leave, and if you are receiving workers compensation payments that replace your usual wages.
If you are doing any of the above paid employment, you will not be eligible to take part in Parent Pathways.
Am I eligible if I am on a visa?
Australian residents can take part in Parent Pathways. This includes Australian citizens, permanent visa holders, and nominated visa holders. Nominated visa holders include New Zealand Special Category Visa holders, Temporary Protection Visa holders, and Safe Haven Visa holders.
If you hold any other type of visa, you are not eligible for Parent Pathways.
Is it only for parents or carers looking for a job?
Parent Pathways is focused on you and your individual circumstances. You can work with your mentor to identify skills, experience and qualifications to help you plan for your future.
I’m looking to further enhance my skills. Can Parent Pathways support me?
Yes. Parent Pathways mentors provide personalised support, such as advice about what you might like to do, or practical help to achieve a particular goal. Through Parent Pathways you can get help to achieve your personal, study or work goals. Whether you need help to find the right course, just need advice, or are looking for financial assistance to help you reach those goals – there is a range of support available to you.
I care for my child/ren full time. Can I bring them to my appointment?
Yes, you can. Your children are always welcome to attend. The service is family-friendly so if you need to reschedule or cancel appointments, that’s okay.
Can I change my Parent Pathways provider?
You may be able to change your Parent Pathways provider if there is another provider in your area that is more convenient for you or if you are not happy with your current provider.
To find out if a transfer is possible, you can speak with your provider or call our National Customer Service Line 1800 805 260. They can confirm whether another provider is available and help complete the transfer if it can be arranged.
If you have been connected with a provider but have not yet commenced, you can ask that provider to transfer you to another provider if that is more convenient.
If you do not want to change providers but would prefer to work with a different mentor, you can ask your provider to arrange this for you.
Do unused funds from my Individual Fund roll over?
Your Individual Fund balance resets to $1,250 (GST inclusive) on your yearly anniversary with the service. Any money not spent is not carried over to the next year.
Find out more about the Individual Fund
Can I track my progress in Parent Pathways?
Yes, Parent Pathways is a service designed to give you visibility across your journey. You can track this through your Workforce Australia Online account.
Once you login, you will be able to:
- view and agree to your Goal Plan to see what you’re working towards
- check your Individual Fund balance
- see how your Individual Fund purchases are linked to goals in your Goal Plan
- monitor your progress as you achieve your goals
Parent Pathways is focused on supporting you, helping you achieve your goals and ensuring you feel confident about your progress in the service.