What is Parent Pathways?
Parent Pathways is a voluntary Australian Government program that provides personalised and financial support to eligible parents and carers of children aged under 6.
Our team of experienced and qualified Support Mentors is dedicated to helping you achieve your personal, study, or work goals at a pace that works for you.
We listen to what matters most to you and your family and engage with all our participants in a culturally respectful and informed way.
How Parent Pathways works
We are here to support you throughout your Parent Pathways journey and ensure that you have the right information and resources every step of the way.
When you connect with a Support Mentor, they will really take the time to get to know your goals and help you figure out the best way to reach them in a way that feels right for you.
Financial support is available to help you buy items and access various supports to reach your goals, including additional funding for a wider range of options.
Once you and your mentor agree on the Goal Plan, you will receive ongoing support to achieve your goals.
Eligibility
Parent Pathways is for parents and carers who:
- Have a child, or are a primary caregiver for a child under the age of 6
- Are not engaged in paid employment.
- Reside in an area with a Parent Pathways provider.
Eligible participants must receive one of the following payments:
- Parenting Payment
- Carer Payment
- Special Benefit.
Those not receiving Centrelink payments may still qualify if:
- They are under 22 years old.
- They are early school leavers (parents or caregivers without a Year 12 qualification).
- They identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
How we can support you
Our Support Mentors will help you to:
- Identify your personal, study or work goals and develop a Goal Plan including addressing any barriers you may face.
- Gain confidence and motivation to achieve your goals.
- Develop effective problem-solving, critical thinking, interpersonal and communication skills.
- Explore training and study options.
- Access services in your community, including childcare and counselling.
- Develop practical skills to help you get a job.
We can also help you access financial support for local activities and support services, including:
- Education and training courses, including short courses and qualifications.
- Driving lessons and costs to get a driver licence.
- Expenses related to study, training, and work, including laptops, phones, tools, internet access, and workwear.
- Pre-employment training related to work, such as First Aid training and White Card certification.
- Transport costs to attend appointments and local activities
- Domestic, family violence, and crisis support services.
- Parents groups or parenting courses.
- Courses aimed at improving language, literacy, and numeracy skills.
- Engagement support vouchers to help with everyday costs, including fuel, bills, and groceries.
Our Success Stories
Since 2018, we have helped parents and carers across New South Wales, Queensland, and the Northern Territory achieve their personal and career goals.
Read real stories that have helped positively impact our customers, their families, and communities through our work.
Traffic control and a helping hand just the ticket for Bianca
Bianca landed a terrific job that she loves as a Traffic Controller, which suits her perfectly.
Carlene finds her calling working in the community
With local support from Bamara, Carlene was able to overcome adversity, gain stability, and achieve her dream job.
Joshua paves the way to kickstart his own business
After sustaining a devastating workplace injury, Joshua knew instantly that this would be a significant turning point in his life.
Find a Bamara Parent Pathways service location near you
We provide services for Parent Pathways in the regions of New England and North West, Townsville (includes Mount Isa), and Darwin (includes Alice Springs).
New South Wales
- Armidale
- Gunnedah
- Inverell
- Moree
- Narrabri
- Tamworth
- Wee Waa
Queensland
- Aitkenvale
- Ayr
- Charter Towers
- Ingham
- Mount Isa
- Townsville
Northern Territory
- Alice Springs
- Casuarina
- Palmerston
Connect with a Parent Pathways Support Mentor
Our Support Mentors play a crucial role in guiding individuals toward their goals, whether big or small. With a unique blend of personal experience and professional insight, they provide invaluable assistance tailored to each participant.
They are committed to being with you every step of the way, providing guidance through setbacks and celebrating your achievements.
Combining their local knowledge and passion for helping others ensures you can pursue their goals with the support you deserve.
About Parent Pathways
Bamara is a provider of Parent Pathways, a service funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
Parent Pathways is a voluntary service that supports parents and carers of young children in achieving their work and study goals.
For further information, visit:
www.dewr.gov.au/parentpathways
How to get started
Our team is ready to help you with any questions you may have. Please fill out the form below and one of our team members will be in touch with you to discuss your options.
Alternatively, you can reach out to our Customer Service team by calling 1300 012 476.