Stronger Relationships Trial Begins

Committed couples can now register online for a $200 subsidy towards the cost of relationship education and counselling services, under the Australian Government’s Stronger Relationships trial.

Minister for Social Services Kevin Andrews said the one-year trial will provide up to 100,000 couples across Australia with relationship education and counselling with a provider of their choice.

“Happy, healthy and strong relationships are vital for individual and family wellbeing, and help to strengthen communities too,” Mr Andrews said.

“Divorce and relationship breakdown costs the Australian economy around $3 billion every year, and has a significant and often inter-generational impact on individuals, children and communities.”

Relationship education and counselling can help couples cope with changes and challenges, such as moving in together, having a baby, getting married, or managing their money.

Importantly, it equips couples with the skills to deal with challenges before they become big issues.

Couples can also use the subsidy to access counselling to help them through any problems they may be experiencing in their relationship.

As there are a limited number of subsidies available, couples are encouraged to register for the trial and make a booking with a service provider as soon as possible, at www.dss.gov.au/strongerrelationships.

Family and relationship service providers and other not-for-profit service providers can apply to become approved providers up to 31 March, 2015, and can apply online at www.dss.gov.au/grants/stronger-relationships-trial