What’s Happening?
The Australian Government’s Parent Pathways service is helping eligible Townsville parents work towards personal, education and employment goals.
The free and voluntary service connects parents and carers with qualified mentors who provide support based on individual circumstances. This can include help with housing, education, training and planning for future work.
Townsville mum Kadisha joined Parent Pathways after moving to the city and receiving a referral from a friend. She connected with Bamara in October 2025 and began working with her mentor, Zara.
Together, they developed a personalised plan focused on stability, security and meaningful employment. This support helped Kadisha secure permanent housing, complete community services training and plan her future career.
Why It Matters?
Parents caring for young children can face several barriers when considering education, housing or future employment. These challenges can be harder to manage without stable housing or suitable support.
Parent Pathways gives participants time to consider their goals while working with a mentor who understands their circumstances. Rather than applying the same plan to everyone, the service responds to each parent’s needs.
For Kadisha, housing became the first priority because it provided security for her and her child. Once that foundation was in place, she could focus more closely on study and future employment.
Her experience shows how practical support can help parents manage immediate needs while planning for longer-term goals.
Local Impact
Kadisha’s support began with a housing needs assessment and connections to local services. These referrals helped her secure safe, permanent housing for herself and her child.
With stable housing in place, Kadisha enrolled in a Certificate III in Community Services. A flexible study plan allowed her to balance education, parenting and family responsibilities.
Kadisha was drawn to community services because of her interest in advocacy and supporting children in care. She also gained strength from her growing connection to her First Nations identity, community and Country.
Her progress shows how Parent Pathways can support Townsville parents through practical assistance, mentoring and personalised planning.
By the Numbers
- October 2025 was when Kadisha connected with Bamara and began receiving support through Parent Pathways.
- April 2026 marked her completion of a Certificate III in Community Services while managing parenting and family life.
- Children under six are covered by the service, which supports eligible parents and carers considering their future goals.
Zoom In
Kadisha said the support from Parent Pathways helped her feel heard while working towards greater stability.
“I am so grateful for the empathy and support I received from the Parent Pathways staff,” Kadisha said. “The mentors truly made me feel safe, secure and heard throughout every interaction. That support helped me build trust in myself and feel empowered to take on my future goals.”
Her mentor, Zara, said Kadisha’s progress reflected her commitment to creating a better future for her family.
“It is incredibly rewarding to see Kadisha’s progress,” Zara said. “Watching her turn her goals into a pathway toward a meaningful career is a real testament to her strength and determination to build a better future for her family.”
Kadisha is now considering a Diploma of Child, Youth and Family Intervention. The qualification would support her goal of helping children, young people and families.
Zoom Out
Parent Pathways is a free and voluntary Australian Government service for eligible parents and carers of children under six.
Participants work with qualified mentors who provide flexible support based on family circumstances, personal needs and future goals. The service can help parents consider housing, study, training and employment options.
Support is not limited to finding work. Mentors can also help participants address barriers that may affect their ability to plan ahead.
Kadisha’s experience shows how this approach can connect immediate needs with education and longer-term career goals.
More information is available through the Australian Government Parent Pathways service.
What To Look For Next?
The Australian Government’s Parent Pathways service will continue supporting eligible parents and carers as they consider their future goals.
Townsville participants can work with qualified mentors to create plans based on their family circumstances and personal priorities. This may include support with housing, study, training or preparation for employment.
Kadisha’s experience may also help other local parents understand how voluntary support can create stability and clearer options for the future.
