Frequently Asked Questions
Why was your family selected?
Inclusion in the study involved a random selection of families in Australia with a two-year old child in 2006. Your child was selected because he/she fell into this age group and because you lived in an area chosen for the study.
How will we use the information you provide?
Your views are really important to ensure that we get an accurate picture of what life is like for a full range of Australian families, from various areas and circumstances. The information that you provide greatly assists government policy makers to plan for future policies and services that will benefit all families and their children. By following your family over time, the study is able to determine the individual, family and community factors that affect children's development. Findings from the study can also be used by local councils, service providers and non-government community organisations to help them to determine the type of services and facilities that are most needed by families.
Research papers and conference papers will also be prepared to inform the general community about findings from the study.
How will you benefit from the study?
The Government needs to learn the impact of its efforts and what could be done better to assist families in their day to day life - this is a chance to have your say!
Being part of a national study such as the Stronger Families in Australia study can be interesting and fun. You will have the sense of satisfaction from knowing that you are part of an important study that will help to plan for better community services and support and provide a better future for all families and their children.
Regular newsletters are sent to families informing them about the progress of the study as well as interesting findings from the study. We will also send a birthday cards for your child as well as seasons' greetings cards in December each year. Small gifts are also brought for your child when the interviewer visits.
When will the study finish?
The first wave of the study was conducted from June to August 2006; the second wave was conducted March to July 2007. The last wave (wave 3) commenced in February 2008 and is planned to finish in May 2008.