Applications open for a parenting information website

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Larry Anthony, today announced that the Australian Government is calling for applications from interested organisations to develop and deliver a website as part of the Early Childhood – Invest to Grow Initiative.

“The Parenting Information Website will be funded $4 million over four years and will be a gateway to the best of the vast array of parenting information already on the Internet.

“It will also provide information to parents and carers on maintaining their own wellbeing and relationships, and on what support and services are available locally.

“During consultations for the National Agenda for Early Childhood, many parents told us that at times they felt overwhelmed and unprepared for the responsibilities involved in raising children.

“Parents also said they had difficulty finding their way through the ‘system’ to get the information and help they need, when they need it. They wanted a central and credible source of information.

“The Website is one way of meeting this need – providing a first point of contact where parents and carers can learn more for themselves or seek out the help of others if they need.

“It will also be a useful tool for professionals, allowing them to provide consistent messages and guidance for parents.

“The Early Childhood – Invest to Grow Initiative is a part of the $365 million refocussed Stronger Families and Communities Strategy announced by the Prime Minister on 7 April 2004. The initiative will fund a range of early childhood programs, and the development of national tools and resources, such as this website.

“The Website is part of the Australian Government’s commitment to ensuring every Australian child has the best possible start in life by supporting parents in their most important role.

“I strongly encourage organisations from the early childhood, health or parenting support sectors across Australia to consider applying to develop and deliver the Website”.

Applications for the funding will be advertised on Saturday 3 July 2004 and close on Friday 10 September 2004. The application form and guidelines are available at www.facs.gov.au.