Family Pathways is a series of studies of separated families in Australia that are being conducted by the Australian Institute of Family Studies.
There are currently two related studies underway:
The Family Pathways studies aim to understand how changes to the family law system and the child support scheme affect the lives of separated parents and their children.
The studies explore questions about separation and caring for children when a relationship ends.
Family Pathways involves separated parents across a broad range of family arrangements - from shared care through to less frequent contact.
Family Pathways: The Longitudinal Study of Separated Families
Brochure (PDF 555K)
Information is being collected from some 10,000 separated parents from all over Australia. Parents have been randomly selected to be part of this new national study.
This longitudinal study will follow the same people over time. Learning about families' experiences over time will make it possible for researchers to find out when it is most important to offer services and support to children and their families after separation. This information will help improve understanding of the long-term effects of family law policy.
Family Pathways: Looking Back
Brochure (PDF 514K)
Looking Back is a national study of separated parents. Information collected will be used to gain a better picture of how parents and their children are adjusting to life after separation and their pathways after separation. The survey will interview parents who separated prior to the introduction of reforms to the family law system in July 2006.
This study will provide a "snap-shot" in time. Parents are asked to look back on the time of separation. They are also asked about the changes and challenges they and their families have faced since separation. This information will be important for understanding a range of issues, including how families manage parenting after separation.
What is involved?
The Social Research Centre will undertake the data collection for the Institute. An accredited interviewer will telephone randomly selected parents and invite them to talk about their experiences of separation, caring for children, and how they and their family are adjusting to life after separation.
Taking part is voluntary. All interviewers, researchers and others involved must comply with very strict procedures to ensure information is kept strictly confidential.
Parents who are part of the study can update their contact details at Freecall 1800 443 135, or visit www.srcentre.com.au/familypathways.htm.
About us
The Family Pathways studies are being conducted by the Australian Institute of Family Studies on behalf of the Attorney-General's Department and the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.
The Institute undertakes high-quality research that informs the Australian Government and the community and influences policy, services and support for families. To find out more about the Institute visit our main website at www.aifs.gov.au.
Need Support?
National crisis services
- Dads in Distress Service Line 1300 853 437
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- Just ask - Mental Health Information Line (rural) 1300 13 11 14
- Mental Health GROW 1800 558 268
- SANE Mental Health Helpline 1800 18 7263
- Violence Against Women, Australia Says No Helpline 1800 200 526
National separation and related services
- Centrelink (income support & family payments) 1800 050 004
- Child Support Agency (child support) 131 272
- Family Relationship Advice Line (advice & referral) 1800 050 321
- MensLine Australia 1300 789 978
- Relationships Australia 1300 364 277
- National Council for Single Mothers 1300 725 470