Parent Pathways: supporting parents and carers to reconnect with study and work

Parent Pathways is a free and voluntary national program designed to support eligible parents and carers of children under six to pursue personal, study or employment goals. Through tailored mentoring and practical support, the initiative aims to help families navigate the transition back into education, training or work.

Parent Pathways is a free and voluntary national program designed to support eligible parents and carers of children under six to pursue personal, study or employment goals. Through tailored mentoring and practical support, the initiative aims to help families navigate the transition back into education, training or work.

Parenting young children can often coincide with periods of disrupted study, reduced workforce participation and limited access to support networks.

Parent Pathways, a national initiative delivered through local providers across Australia, aims to assist parents and carers during this stage by offering personalised guidance and practical support.

The program connects participants with a dedicated mentor who works alongside them to identify goals and explore pathways into study, training or employment.

Rather than a standardised program structure, Parent Pathways focuses on flexible, individualised support designed to respond to each family’s circumstances.

Parent Pathways is available to parents and carers who:

• have a child aged under six
• are not currently in paid employment
• live in an area where a Parent Pathways provider operates.

Participants will generally be receiving one of the following payments:

• Parenting Payment
• Carer Payment
• Special Benefit.

Eligibility may also extend to parents or carers who are not receiving a Centrelink payment if they are:

• under 22 years old
• an early school leaver without a Year 12 qualification
• a First Nations parent or carer.

The program recognises that some families face additional structural barriers to education and employment and may benefit from targeted support during the early parenting years.

Parent Pathways provides tailored support depending on the goals and circumstances of each participant.

Mentors work with parents and carers to identify achievable steps that can build confidence, skills and connections over time.

Support services may include:

• language, literacy and numeracy programs
• child care assistance to support participation in study, training or appointments
• financial assistance to reduce cost barriers
• referrals to local services such as family and domestic violence support, community groups and charities
• assistance to gain qualifications through short courses or accredited training
• career guidance to support entry or re-entry into the workforce.

The emphasis is on practical and flexible support that can adapt as family circumstances change.

Programs such as Parent Pathways sit alongside the early childhood education and care system in supporting families during the early years.

Access to guidance, education pathways and employment opportunities can contribute to improved family stability and increased workforce participation over time.

For many parents and carers, reconnecting with education or employment may also support children’s participation in early learning environments and strengthen engagement with local community services.

Parent Pathways is delivered by local organisations across Australia.

Parents and carers interested in the program can check eligibility and find a provider in their area through the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations website.