Family Support Program Future Directions

Invitation from Minister Collins to have your say

The discussion paper provided a starting point for discussion between the Australian Government and the sector about the future directions of the Families and Children’s Services stream of the Family Support Program. In February-March 2013, there will be a number of consultations to discuss further the opportunities that have been identified through submissions that can strengthen the FSP into the future.

The last 50 years have seen major social and economic changes. While the majority of Australian families have benefited from the nation’s growing prosperity, some families still experience long-term welfare dependency and social exclusion.

To support those families, the Australian Government is delivering a welfare reform agenda shaped by three imperatives:

1. Every child should have the best start in life through being safe and nurtured.
2. All children and young people should be engaged with education or training.
3. Every available option should be used to support more Australians into work.

The Australian Government’s FSP makes an important contribution to this agenda.

Who are we consulting with?

All those with an interest in the FSP are invited to ‘have your say’ through written submissions and face-to-face consultations. 

FSP funding agreements will remain in place until 30 June 2014. Any changes to the program resulting from your written submissions, consultations and research will be signalled by mid-2013.

I encourage you to contribute to this important process to ensure the FSP continues to be valued as an important national program of support for children and families.

A copy of the Discussion Paper is available here: Family Support Program Future Directions Discussion Paper.

Download the Discussion Paper.

Family Support Program Future Directions Discussion Paper [1.04MB]

Family Support Program Future Directions Discussion Paper [1.0MB ]

Why we need your input?

Although organisations work hard to respond to families’ increasingly complex needs, some families find it difficult to access services when they need support. Working together to achieve more integrated planning and funding of services in disadvantaged locations would reduce complexity in the service system and strengthen existing service infrastructure. Increasing the focus on collaboration and evidence in the design and implementation of services would also strengthen the system of support available for vulnerable families.

Have your say

Consultations

Face-to-face consultations will be held in February-March 2013 to seek feedback about the opportunities that have been identified through submissions that can strengthen the FSP into the future. The schedule of consultations is outlined below.

For more information about the consultations, please read Minister Collins’ update, subscribe.

Submissions

You were invited to forward a written submission responding to the issues raised in this paper. Submissions can be sent to the following email address: FSPfuturedirections@fahcsia.gov.au

or you can post your submission to:

Family Support Program Branch – Future Directions
Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
TOP AE3
PO Box 7576
Canberra Business Centre ACT 2610

Based on sector feedback and the government’s commitment to broader sector and community consultation the timeline for submissions has now been extended until the close of business 30 November 2012.

Format for submissions

Electronic submissions should be in Word format.

How can I find out more?

Minister Collins will provide regular updates on the FSP Future Directions consultation process on this page.

These updates will include advice on the key themes identified in written submissions and meetings with the sector and users of FSP services.

To receive Minister Collins’ messages and other updates about the FSP Future Directions Discussion Paper, subscribe.

Minister Collins FSP Update - 19 December 2012

Questions and Answers

Why is there further reform needed to the FSP?

It is important to continue to build on the FSP’s 2011 reforms to ensure the program is achieving its objectives for families and children.  The Discussion Paper provides a basis for consultation with the community about opportunities to strengthen the design and delivery of the program.

Why does the Discussion Paper only refer to Family and Children’s services?

The focus of the Discussion Paper is on those activities for which FaHCSIA has policy and funding responsibility.

The Attorney-General has commissioned her own research on the activities delivered through the Family Law Services stream of the FSP.  Minister Roxon is also consulting with the sector and other key stakeholders to inform her review of these Family Law Services.

FaHCSIA and the Attorney-General’s Department continue to work together to ensure the FSP is meeting the needs of families and children.

A description of all activities funded under the FSP is provided in the Discussion Paper.