Family Wellbeing Services walk hand in hand with families

Queensland’s communities, families and children are the focus of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Family Wellbeing Services campaign launched today. 

The campaign includes a mix of Indigenous health centre advertising, press and community radio, digital video and display, search engine marketing and social media advertising.

Minister for Children Leanne Linard said the campaign aimed to encourage more families to access free, practical, and confidential support provided by the 34 Family Wellbeing Services throughout the state. 

“We opened the first Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Family Wellbeing Service in 2016 and since then 20,510 First Nations families have received culturally-appropriate support from staff.  These staff walk alongside parents on their journey to help their children thrive,” Ms Linard said.

“The services cover the state, from the Torres Strait to St George and help families find the support they need. 

“There would be few families in Queensland that didn’t experience some sort of stress and these centres provide culturally-sensitive services for our First Nations families.”

Family Wellbeing Services are delivered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled organisations, which means families receive culturally appropriate support based on their families’ strengths and community needs. 

“Being connected to culture can be one of the most effective ways to support families,” Ms Linard said.

“The Queensland Government recently agreed that funding for this service will be made permanent, with $42 million already allocated for 2021 to 2022.

“Family Wellbeing Services make it easier for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families to get support and strengthen their social, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing if and when they need it.” 

Minister Linard said the campaign would encourage more parents and carers to reach out in times of need. 

“We know the importance of the first few years of a child’s life and this government is committed to ensuring all Queensland children have access to what they need to grow, develop and succeed,” she said.

The state-wide campaign will run until 30 June 2022. Parents and carers can find out more information by calling 13 62 64 or visiting www.familywellbeingqld.org.au.

ENDS

Media Contact: Catherine Baker, Senior Media Advisor, tel: 0498 844 783