Supporting parents to build their skills and confidence.
October 2026 update
The Strengthening Parent Support Program is expanding as part of Thriving Kids. Thriving Kids is a joint Commonwealth and state government initiative that will support families who have children aged 0 to 8 years with:
- developmental delays or
- autism with low to moderate needs.
Starting 1 October 2026, parenting education will increase through the existing program. Over the next few months, all ten current operating areas, will expand operations, increasing access to:
- peer-led and facilitator-led support groups
- parenting education and information sessions
- individual support for families.
The Strengthening Parent Support Program will continue to support all children aged 0 to 18 years.
The Strengthening Parent Support Program is for parents and carers who have a child:
- with a disability or developmental delay, and
- aged 0 to 18 years.
This free program helps parents connect with other families and local communities through:
- facilitator led and peer led support groups
- parenting education and information sessions
- individual support.
To access the program, contact your nearest provider from the list below.
| Service | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Gateways Support Services | 10-12 Albert Street Geelong West VIC 3218 | 03 5221 2984 |
| Inspired Carers | Building 3 36-38 Packham Street Shepparton VIC 3632 | 03 5831 7157 |
| Mackillop Family Services | 118 Commercial Road Footscray VIC 3011 | 03 9680 8444 |
| Melbourne City Mission | 164-180 Kings Way South Melbourne VIC 3205 | 1800 343 287 |
| Moira | Level 3 42 Lakeview Drive Caribbean Park Scoresby, VIC 3179 | 03 8552 2222 |
| Mpower | 71 Koroit Street Warrnambool VIC 3280 | 03 5561 8111 |
| Noah’s Ark | 6 Blackwood Place Morwell VIC 3840 | 1800 819 140 |
| Parentzone – Anglicare Eastern | 666 Mountain Highway Bayswater VIC 3153 | 1300 007 873 |
| Pinarc Disability Support | 1828 Sturt Street Alfredton VIC 3350 | 03 5329 1300 |
| RIAC - Rights and Information Advocacy Centre | 480 Hargreaves Street Bendigo VIC 3550 | 0488 605 363 |
| Uniting Wimmera | 185 Baillie Street Horsham VIC 3400 | 03 5362 4042 |