ParentsNext

Achieve your goals with ParentsNext

If you’re a parent looking for support in finding your next step in life, we can help.

Whether you want to learn new skills and gain qualifications, you’re thinking about finding a job, or you want to set some meaningful goals - we can help you get to where you want to be.

If you’re an eligible parent in Queensland, South Australia or Victoria, our dedicated teams can help you find the exciting next step in life that’s right for you and your family.

Parent with child at a cafe colouring paper

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What is ParentsNext?

ParentsNext is a flexible program to support parents who have a child under six years old, and who haven’t been in paid work in the last six months.

It’s not a one-size-fits-all service for people looking for work. It’s a program that understands the various challenges of being a parent and providing you support to be successful in life.

And it’s tailored to your circumstances and the goals you want to achieve - so you can fit your program around your family and day-to-day responsibilities in your life.

Apply now

Your program, your goals

With ParentsNext you can get help to:

Identify new goals suitable for you and your life as a parent
Develop a realistic plan to achieve your goals
Access studying or new learning opportunities
Gain new skills and qualifications
Build a path to find a new job and explore career options
Access support including childcare, housing, and health services
Meet and connect with other parents in your community

If eligible, you can also gain access to funds for:

Driving lessons
Phone and internet access
Training and education opportunities and study aides
Tools and equipment
Support services (including mental health)
Transport and fuel
Other expenses relevant to your circumstances

Your goals at your pace

When you come to APM, it’s your journey, and we’ll work with you, at your pace.

Our Parent and Family Pathway Planners will help you to create and design your personal plan and map out a pathway to achieve your goals.

ParentsNext is voluntary. If you want to take a break, we can pick up again where we left off when it works for you.

If you want to reach your goals faster, we can offer more intensive support.

We understand the challenges facing today’s parents and we’re here for you.

Who is eligible for ParentsNext?

If you are a parent with a child under six years old, receiving the Parenting Payment and have not been in paid work for more than six months – you could be eligible to join ParentsNext.

APM Employment Services delivers ParentsNext in parts of Queensland, South Australia and Victoria.

Our friendly team can help determine if you’re eligible for the program and connect you with your nearest ParentsNext location.

Apply now

ParentsNext FAQs

What’s changed with ParentsNext?

From May 2023 it is no longer compulsory for parents to take part in ParentsNext.

It is now a completely voluntary program.

This means greater flexibility for you and your family.

When you want assistance the ParentsNext team are here for you, when you want to take a break you can do so when you choose.

What is the future for ParentsNext?

From July 2024, the ParentsNext program will come to an end and will be replaced by an exciting new voluntary service.

More details will be shared on the new service when they are announced.

Are your ParentsNext sites closing?

No, we are still open as usual and we remain dedicated to helping parents get the support they need on their journey.

How can ParentsNext help me now?

Our ParentsNext teams are experienced and eager to help you to achieve your goals.

They are well connected throughout the local community and can connect you to any service you may require.

Will I need to report on my activities?

No, you will not need to report your attendance at activities or appointments. You will only need to report your income each fortnight to Centrelink if you or your partner are working.

Will I still have access to the current Child Care Subsidy?

Yes, parents and carers can continue to access current supports including the 36 hours per fortnight of subsidised childcare through the Child Care Subsidy.

Do I still need to go to appointments?

No, but if you choose to continue with us we will offer support to help you reach your goals. If now isn’t the right time for you and you choose not to attend appointments or activities there is no penalty.

Do I still need to go to appointments?

Do I need to keep going to activities?

No, you are not required to attend activities such as training courses, however, if you wish to continue we will support you to do so.

Can I still get the same help and support from ParentsNext?

Yes! You can still get the same support. If you want to continue in the program we are here to support you to do so with the same support options.

ParentsNext in Melbourne