Parent Pathways

Helping parents reach their goals

Parent Pathways is a voluntary program that provides parents with personalised support to reach their goals. From educational opportunities to transitioning back to work, we help parents make confident and empowered steps towards a brighter future.

Working with our dedicated team can help parents to:

Gain confidence and feel empowered to reach your goals
Access flexible support for your future as you care for your family
Improve long-term financial security through awareness and budgeting
Make empowered choices about your career future
Improve quality of life with access to clinical mental health and counselling services.

Enquire today

How we support your journey

Our dedicated team are here to help you reach your goals. Here’s how we support your career journey:

What works for you

Whether it’s in person or over the phone, we find an approach that’s right for your personal circumstances. Together, we work towards your goals and creating a plan that caters to your needs.

Child-friendly, convenient sites

Our team are here to help you reach your goals as you navigate parenting. All our sites are child-friendly because we know that’s what parents care most about.

Engagement support Vouchers

We support your goals with practical items you need for work or study. With up to $250 in support vouchers, you’ll be equipped for your future.

Is Parent Pathways right for me?

Parent Pathways welcomes parents on a voluntary basis. The program is designed for parents who:

Have a youngest child under six years,
Are an Australian resident or citizen or permanent / nominated Visa holder, and
Are not currently in paid employment, and
Live in a region that Mission Australia offers Parent Pathways

Those eligible must also be:

Receiving a Parenting or Carers Payment or Special Benefit, or
Not receiving a Payment but are either:
- Under 22 years old, or
- Identify as First Nations, or
- Have not completed year 12 or a Cert 3

Find a Parent Pathways near you

What can you expect

Parent Pathways is a voluntary program designed to help you. There are no obligations and you control the pace. Here’s what you can expect:

Say hello

When you’re ready to chat to our team, you’ll be greeted by a friendly Pathway Coach who will take the time to learn about your needs and help you get started.

You set the pace

At a time and place that suits you best, your coach will work with you to create a plan tailored to your goals and situation. Each meeting is flexible and if you need to change or cancel, there’s no pressure.

Steps towards Success

Explore your unique strengths and set goals that align with your abilities and aspirations.

Build meaningful connections

Meet others in the community and get introduced to mentors who can support you along the way.

Celebrate your future

You’ll continue to build on your strengths, master new skills, and explore even bigger opportunities for you and your family’s future.

Mary’s story

It would have been extremely difficult to continue with my studies without the ongoing support from Judy and the team from Mission Australia”Mary

When Mary lost her casual teaching job, she was unemployed and raising three children on her own. She remembers feeling overwhelmed and unsure about the future.

She connected with Judy from Mission Australia and shared her vision of becoming a psychologist. Together, they worked on a realistic plan to balance time with her family and study.

After three years Mary will be graduating from her degree with flying colours and closer to living out her dream job.

Take the next step with Parent Pathways

Interested in a brighter future for you and your family? Fill out the form below to express your interest and a friendly team member will follow up with you shortly.

Know a parent who might benefit from Parent Pathways? Connect them with us today.

Your life, your goals, your way