Two years on, Parent Pathways helping parents reach their goals

Parent Pathways is helping thousands of parents and carers across Australia turn their goals into reality.

Whether it’s starting a course, finding a job or launching a business, the Albanese Labor Government is providing practical, personalised support to help parents build their futures.

Two years since its launch in November 2024, Parent Pathways has supported more than 44,000 people. Providing personalised mentoring. Offering practical assistance. And creating pathways to education, training and employment opportunities. 

Amongst those supported is more than 4,000 First Nations parents and carers. 14,500 single parents and almost 6,000 parents and carers with disability.

More than 20,000 participants have commenced education or training, with 2,100 already completing their studies.

Parent Pathways is designed to fit around family life. Because parents shouldn’t have to choose between caring for their families and pursuing their ambitions.

Jannette, a First Nations mother with a passion for working outdoors and on Country, found new opportunities through Parent Pathways. While studying Conservation and Ecosystem Management, she gained valuable experience as a Cultural Liaison Officer.

For Jessica, finding the right support was key to balancing life as a single mum. With her mentor’s help, she turned her passion for nail art into a successful business after completing a Certificate III in Nail Technology.

The Albanese Labor Government is reforming employment services to deliver more personalised support and better respond to the needs of Australians. Parent Pathways is part of that commitment, co-designed with parents, carers and community organisations to put families at the centre and help parents achieve their employment and career goals. 

For information about Parent Pathways and to discover the stories of parents and carers taking the next steps towards their goals, visit the department’s website.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Amanda Rishworth:  

“Being a parent shouldn’t mean putting your own goals and ambitions on hold.

“Parent Pathways starts by asking parents what they want to achieve, what works for their family and what support will help them get there.

“Jannette and Jessica’s stories show there isn’t one pathway to success. Sometimes it starts with enrolling in a course, building confidence or taking an idea and turning it into a business.”

Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Patrick Gorman:  

“Two years in, Parent Pathways is showing the value of doing things differently. Listening to participants first and supporting parents with the tools that they need. 

“I recently met Bessy, a Parent Pathways participant and mum to young Freddy. She shared how the program helped her return to her cyber security studies after a breast cancer diagnosis put her dreams on hold. Today, she is back pursuing the career she has always wanted, all whilst being a fantastic mother to little Freddy. 

“Parents set the goals. Parent Pathways helps them get there. That has been at the heart of the program’s success over the past two years. The Albanese Government will continue supporting parents to build their futures and achieve their career ambitions.”

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Minister Rishworth's Office - Jack Loader - 0429 705 664. 

Assistant Minister Gorman's Office - Raz Abdullah - 0474 553 264.