Media Release by Hon Kevin Andrews MP

Applications open for Families Expert Panel

Applications are now open for suitably qualified people or organisations to provide services as part of the Government’s Families and Children Expert Panel.

Minister for Social Services Kevin Andrews said the Government is investing $5 million up to 2019 towards the panel, which will include research, practice and evaluation experts.

“Families and Children services provide support, counselling and education to families at critical times of their lives and this panel will help ensure that the assistance families receive is the very best on offer,” Mr Andrews said.

“Panel members will advise, mentor, support and train service providers who would like to build their capacity to offer services and programs aimed at improving outcomes for families and children.

“The sector can contact experts on the panel for advice in developing and delivering the latest innovations and tools in evidence-based practices, outcomes measurement and evaluation to improve services.

“This initiative will help us deliver on our commitment to build the bridge between evidence, policy and practice in the interests of Australian families.”

The panel is expected to be operating early next year.

For more information go to https://www3.aifs.gov.au/cfca/node/11489/