Parent Pathways is a voluntary service that provides personalised assistance and financial support to eligible parents and carers of children up to the age of 6 years.
Parent Pathways is about parents and carers and their individual needs. With the help of a qualified mentor, you can receive flexible support to assist with any personal, study or work goals.
Who is Parent Pathways for?
Parent Pathways is for parents and carers who:
- have a child aged under 6
- are not in paid employment
- live in an area where there is a Parent Pathways provider.
Receiving one of these payments:
- Parenting Payment
- Carer Payment
- Special Benefit.
Eligibility includes those who are not getting a Centrelink payment, and are either:
- under 22 years old
- an early school leaver (parents who don't have a year 12 qualification)
- a First Nations parent or carer.
What support is available?
The service offers a range of support options, including working with a mentor to find activities, services and training that meets your needs. Some services on offer include:
- language or literacy programs
- support to find a child care centre and help with child care costs
- financial support, for example to help with the cost of training courses, text books or to purchase a computer
- referral to supports such as financial information services or family and domestic violence support services
- training, such as a short course at the local TAFE
- career guidance.
Taking part in the service is voluntary and flexible. You can choose to join, leave, take a break and come back at any time. The service is focused on you and your individual needs.