In the current environment, rising living costs and systemic inequalities continue to deepen the challenges for those most in need. Families Australia advocates for four key priorities to better support the wellbeing of Australian families:

  1. A Sustainable, Forward-Thinking Sector: Urging structural reform and increased core funding of the families and community sector peak bodies, to support the diverse needs of families and communities, with an emphasis on long-term planning and strategic collaboration.
  2. Support for Children in Foster Care and their Carers: Advocating for the implementation of a Foster Care Gold Card initiative and increased financial and social support for foster carers, addressing the growing shortage and helping to ensure stable, nurturing care for children in need.
  3. Strengthening Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Families: Supporting increased and sustainable funding for SNAICC and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations to ensure culturally safe, community-driven services and meaningful participation in decision-making processes.
    2025-2026 Pre-budget submission – Families Australia
  4. Income Support for Vulnerable Families: Raising the base rate of income support payments, including JobSeeker and Parenting Payment, to address child poverty and ensure families have access to essential resources for health, housing, education, and basic needs.

Access Families Australia’s 2025-2026 Pre-budget submission here.