The Care Factor
The Care Factor is the everyday care and connection that helps children thrive — and the support around dads and father figures that helps them keep showing up.
“I know Dad cares because he makes time for me.”
Children thrive when dads are supported.
The Care Factor is the everyday care and connection that helps children thrive — listening, showing up, playing, encouraging, repairing and trying again.
It also recognises that dads need care too.
Families, mates, schools, services, workplaces and communities all play a role in helping dads and father figures feel supported, connected and able to care.
- Recognise the small, everyday moments of care that matter to children.
- Encourage communities to check in with and support dads and father figures.
- Share practical ideas that strengthen connection between dads and children.
Dads want to care. Support helps turn intention into everyday action.
Insights from the State of the World’s Fathers 2026: Australia report show a strong desire among fathers to be active, capable caregivers — while also highlighting the workplace, financial and social pressures that can make this harder.
Care is already there. The conditions around dads matter.of fathers say they enjoy caring for their children.
say their partner sees them as a competent caregiver.
say caregiving by fathers is more normal than it used to be.
of dads say they have changed jobs or work arrangements to gain greater flexibility for family life.
What the numbers mean
The Care Factor is not about asking dads to care more perfectly. It is about recognising the care already happening, making space for the small moments children value, and building communities, services and workplaces that help dads stay connected and involved.
Stories of care, connection and showing up.
Hear from well-known Australians and community voices about what The Care Factor means to them, and why supporting dads matters for children.
Tom McDonald
AFL Player Tom McDonald shares a message on fatherhood, care and the moments that matter.
Maggie Dent
Parenting Educator and best selling Maggie Dent shares why everyday connection helps children feel safe, seen and supported.
Bring The Care Factor to life.
Practical resources for schools, dads and families, plus ready-to-share campaign content for your community and social channels.
Schools
School resources
Download Father’s Day activities and practical resources to help students reflect on care, connection and the father figures in their lives.
Download school resources
Dads & families
Dads and families
Simple tips and advice to create small moments of connection everyday with your children.
Download family resources
Social toolkit
Share The Care Factor
Download ready-to-share social tiles, captions and campaign graphics for your school, workplace, organisation or personal channels.
Download social toolkit
Find your community.
Fatherhood was never meant to be done alone. The Fathering Project’s Dads Groups and Community Fathering programs bring fathers and father figures together to connect, learn from one another and build stronger relationships with their children.
The Australian Fathering Awards 2026 stories.
Each Father’s Day, the Australian Fathering Awards celebrate dads, father figures, male role models and workplaces who show the impact of care, connection and positive role modelling.
Celebrating care in action.
The Australian Fathering Awards 2026 stories bring The Care Factor to life by recognising male role models who go above and beyond to support children, families and communities.
Explore award storiesTips and Advice on The Fathering Channel
Practical, evidence-informed ideas to help dads and father figures connect, communicate and navigate everyday family life.
Small moments that help children feel connected
Simple ways to build trust and connection through the everyday moments children remember.
Read article
How to listen so your child feels heard
Practical prompts to slow down, stay curious and create space for honest conversations.
Read article
Making the most of daily routines
Discover how everyday routines like mealtimes, school drop-offs and bedtime can strengthen your relationship with your child and create lasting connection.
Read article
Switching off from work
Find simple ways to leave work behind, be more present at home, and make the most of your time with your children after a busy day.
Read article
Support dads. Strengthen families.
Your donation helps The Fathering Project provide practical resources, programs and community support so more dads and father figures can be connected, confident and involved in their children’s lives.
Make a donationGet involved this Father’s Day.
Join a local event, share the campaign or bring The Care Factor to your school, workplace or community.
Community Fathering event
Join us for a family-friendly evening, a free BBQ and activities for the kids.
Venue: Family Services House outdoor plaza, Stockland Shellharbour. Enter via Lamerton Crescent or through the centre.
No RSVP is needed. For more details, text Marty Janssen on 0431 916 367.
Contact MartyWA Father’s Day Walk
Join us for a short walk around Champions Lake followed by a BBQ.
Register for freeNeed a little extra support?
Parenting and family life can feel challenging at times. Whether you are looking for practical advice, someone to talk to, mental health support or help for your family, there are trusted services available.
This Father’s Day, share your Care Factor.
Share the message, use the resources, attend an event or check in with a dad in your life. When dads and father figures feel supported, they are better able to care, connect and keep showing up for their children.