Family Wellbeing

The Family Wellbeing service supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families to stay strong, connected and safe. Our team walks alongside families to help navigate life’s challenges, build confidence, and keep children connected to family, community and culture. This is a free and voluntary service. Families choose who we can advocate to on their behalf and can withdraw their consent at any time.

Who Can Access This Service

Our service is available across our Goolburri footprint and available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families who may be experiencing challenges or are at risk of entering the child protection system. We work with families expecting a baby through to those with children and young people up to the age of 18 years. Families can self-refer themselves at any time.

When We’re Involved

The Family Wellbeing service provides support to families at any stage. Families can self-refer themselves directly whenever they feel they need it. You don’t have to wait until the Department of Child Safety, Youth and Women becomes involved or begins making decisions about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. We are here to assist at any point along the Child Protection Continuum, including but not limited to:

Investigations
Assessments
Family group meetings
Case planning
Court processes
Placement decisions

How We Can Help

Our team offers flexible, culturally informed support that’s tailored to each family’s needs including but not limited to:

Practical Support

In-home support and case management
Parenting and household skill-building
Safety planning for children
Assistance with budgeting, housing and daily routines

Advocacy and Guidance

Acting as your advocate when working with the Department of Child Safety, Youth and Women
Helping you understand the child protection system and court processes
Promoting family-led decision making
Supporting families to make their own choices and set their own goals

Referrals and Connection

Linking families with other community services
Support for issues such as substance use, domestic violence, mental health, and school attendance
Group programs for parents and children

Accessing This Service

To access the Family Wellbeing service, children in the home must identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. You can make contact by completing a self-referral online or calling us directly, our team can even visit your home to help complete the process.

Everyone needs support at times and reaching out is a sign of strength. The Family Wellbeing service is here to walk beside you, your children, and your family, every step of the way.

Fees

This program is fully funded by the government, ensuring eligible families can access support at no cost. Please contact our team for further details.

Referrals

Families can self-refer themselves to the service, or be referred by the Department of Child Safety, Queensland Health, Police, Education, Family and Child Connect, hospitals, or other Goolburri programs. We also welcome referrals made through family group meetings or other community services.