Parent Pathways
Parents are the best people to build their family’s future. We’ll help you work towards your goals for your family and yourself.
Your life, your goals, your way
Build the life you want for your family. Parent Pathways is a free, flexible, voluntary service for parents and carers of children under six. You set the goals; a Mission Australia Pathways Coach supports you step-by-step to reach them - in ways that work for you.
Set goals for your life, get support to reach them your way.
- Free, voluntary, flexible support tailored to your situation.
- Your own Pathways Coach to listen, encourage, and help you take the next step.
- Sessions in person, by phone or video - times that suit family life.
- Financial support for attending sessions; help toward costs involved in your goals may be available.
Our Parent Pathways locations
Parent Pathways is available in South Western Sydney (NSW) and in Victoria’s Gippsland, South East Melbourne and the Peninsula.
Enter your postcode or use the map to confirm availability, then choose the best time for a call. The service is free, flexible and voluntary, and won’t affect your payments.
How Parent Pathways works
- Meet in person at safe, child-friendly locations (Mission Australia office or library)
- Or choose phone/video sessions
- Flexible times to fit family life
- You decide what matters most to you, whether it’s learning new skills, planning for the future, or finding activities for your child.
- Your Parent Coach will listen without judgment, help you set realistic steps, and encourage you along the way.
- We’ll connect you to local services and resources so you have the support you need to move forward at a pace that feels right for your family.
Parent Pathways is for parents and carers who:
- Have a child aged under 6
- Are not in paid employment
- Live in an area where there is a Parent Pathways provider.
Recieving one of these payments:
- Parenting Payment
- Carer Payment
- Special Benefit.
Eligibility includes those who are not getting a Centrelink payment, and are either:
- Under 22 years old
- An early school leaver (parents who don't have a Year 12 qualification)
- A First Nations parent or carer.
Your future is worth it. Our dedicated team helps parents by providing:
- Engagement support vouchers worth $50 per face-to-face session (where eligible)
- Additional funding for study and work opportunities, including uniforms, books, driving lessons, and more
- Flexible, personalised support to guide you through financial aid processes and help with government agencies or other service providers
What to expect from Parent Pathways
Parent Pathways can support you to reach goals, feel more confident about the future, and build the life you want for your family.
Say hello
Meet a friendly Pathways Coach who listens, understands your goals, and helps you take the first step.
You set the pace
Choose times that suit your family and work toward goals at your own speed.
Take steps & build connections
Set clear goals, grow your skills, and connect with mentors and families who support your journey.
Celebrate your future
Enjoy your achievements and explore new opportunities for you and your family.
Take the next step with Parent Pathways
Interested in a brighter future for you and your family?
We’re available Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm (AEST). Call now to speak with a friendly Pathways Coach. Call 1800 791 371
Alternatively, fill out the form below to express your interest and a friendly team member will follow up with you shortly.
