Support for separated parents

Minister for Community Services Larry Anthony today launched Back on Track, finding a way through separation and repartnering, a book that helps relationship educators and counsellors support separated parents.

“Separation is a sensitive subject and there are conflicting views about how it should be handled,” said Mr Anthony.

“But whatever their opinion, most people agree that individuals and families need support to manage what can be an unbelievably stressful time.

“To effectively support parents, all their experiences through life must be considered. Ending and beginning relationships are important experiences in anyone’s life.

“The book’s development was fostered by the Child Support Agency, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to working with the community to encourage and support parents.”

The book was produced by a consortium of community service providers, and is a flexible, practical tool that can be adapted to existing services or used to develop programs.

“Under the Howard-Anderson Government, the CSA has revised and revitalised its direction and the way it conducts its business,” said Mr Anthony.

“The CSA is not a heavy-handed Government authority, but is concerned with supporting children, which at times means helping parents deal with their relationships.”