The program is funded to deliver targeted, father-inclusive support through a combination of one-on-one assistance, group-based connection, and coordinated referrals.
Program overview
The Community Fathering program delivers holistic, wrap around Case Management services, with Case Managers located currently in New South Wales (Port Kembla) and Western Australia (Armadale, Gosnells, Kwinana and Rockingham) HUB across the country.
Our Case management services work with clients through the process of self-awareness to responsibility for themselves and their children with the aim of leading to all children having an effective and engaged father by their side.
We utilise evidence informed, strength based and trauma informed practices, consistent goal setting and thorough data collection to meet the clients where they are and work in a responsive and flexible way to ensure the best possible outcomes are achieved for the client and their family.
We ensure all Case Managers utilise cultural competency practices and maintain the dignity and cultural safety of all clients.
What the program provides
Concerns we partner with clients to overcome include:
- Family Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Gender Equity in Parenting
- Family and Personal Safety
- Breaking the Cycle of Disadvantage
- Navigating the parenting dynamic
- Parenting through separation
- Parenting through grief
- Child protection and working with the legal system
We work in a mixed presentation model of home and community visits as well as appointments at our Hubs. The framework covers 6 specific stages of growth.
All our Case Managers are fully trained, experienced and qualified to offer intense clinical case management to clients of all communities and backgrounds.
One-on-one support
Personalised support delivered by trained Case Managers to help fathers navigate challenges and build confidence in their parenting role.
Access to place-based Hubs
Our Hubs provide a safe space for dads to reach out, connect and work with our trained Case Managers. At the moment the Hubs are located in NSW and WA.
City of Wollongong
The Foundery
132 Wentworth Street
Port Kembla
Call: 0451 059 049
City of Armadale
Child and Parent Centre Westfield Park (On the grounds of Westfield Park Primary School) 11 Hemingway Drive, Camillo
City of Rockingham
Child and Parent Centre East Waikiki (On the grounds of East Waikiki Primary School) end of Murchison Road and Cnr of Carnegie Loop, Cooloongup.
City of Kwinana
Child and Parent Centre Calista (On the grounds of Calista Primary School) Harlow Rd, Calista
City of Swan
Child and Parent Centre Swan (On the grounds of Middle Swan Primary School) Cockman Cross, Stratton.
Contact Community Fathering Manager, David Walker David.Walker@thefatheringproject.org to make an appointment.
Group-based connection
Opportunities for fathers to connect with other dads through group activities, including Dads Groups, Connect Program and Walk & Talk programs.
Coordinated referrals
Support to connect fathers with relevant local services, including family support, health, and community services where appropriate.
Who the program supports
The Community Fathering program is designed to support:
- Fathers and father figures
- Living in communities experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage
- Who may be experiencing complex or multiple challenges
Fathers do not need to self-identify with labels or diagnoses to engage with support.
Partnerships and delivery
The program is delivered in partnership with:
- Australian Government departments
- State and local government agencies
- Community service organisations
- Health care services, providers and other NGO’s
These partnerships enable coordinated, place-based responses that improve access to support for fathers and families.
Outcomes and impact
The Community Fathering program aims to:
- Increase fathers’ confidence and engagement in parenting
- Reduce social isolation among dads
- Strengthen family relationships
- Improve outcomes for children
Get involved
Make a Referral
Fathering Resources
