How does Caring Dads work?
The Caring Dads WA program has three components:
- A 17-session, group-based parenting intervention for fathers, held once weekly in Ballajura (Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, 6–8pm)
- Systematic outreach and a dedicated support service for mothers, to ensure their safety and freedom from coercion
- Ongoing, collaborative case management working alongside existing service providers and professionals involved with the father's family
We work collaboratively with CPFS, the Department of Justice, Family Safety Services, Family Law professionals, and community agencies. Caring Dads WA is not designed to be a standalone program.
📞 (08) 9249 8601 | ✉️ [email protected]
Program goals
- To develop trust and motivation in fathers to examine and change their parenting behaviour
- To increase fathers' awareness and application of child-centred fathering
- To build fathers' accountability for abusive, neglectful, and violent behaviour and its impact on their children
- To rebuild trust with children and plan for the future
Is this program for you?
Do you live in North Metro WA?
Do you have regular contact with your child/children?
Are you worried about how your behaviour is impacting your relationship with your children?
Are you willing and able to attend a 17-week program?
Do you want to be the best dad you can be?
If you have answered yes to these questions then Caring Dads may be a good fit for you.
Eligibility: Fathers must have contact with at least one child and have been abusive, neglectful, or violent in their family, or be considered at high risk. Men with a history of child sexual abuse are not eligible.
We accept referrals from CPFS, Family Law professionals, Department of Justice, Family Safety Services, and community agencies. Self-referrals are also welcome.
"I just wanted to thank you for your care and professionalism while I worked through some pretty important issues. Changes have been made and maintained, especially in my relationship with my son. I'm more consistent, and honest, and respectful. Generally speaking, I'm more mature and compassionate, having let go of the baggage of the past. Thanks again, and good luck with the next blokes who come knocking on your door."
- Caring Dads client
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I refer a father to Caring Dads WA?
Anyone can make a referral — there is no requirement for a formal referral pathway. Contact us directly at [email protected] or call (08) 9249 8601. Once we receive an enquiry, we check suitability and send through a referral form. We then arrange an Intake and Assessment appointment with the father and advise both the father and the referrer whether he has been accepted and which group he has been allocated to.
Where and when do the groups run?
Groups currently run at our Ballajura office (1 Kingfisher Avenue, Ballajura WA 6066) on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, 6–8pm. We are working to expand days and locations as the program grows.
What are the eligibility criteria?
Fathers must have contact with at least one child and have been abusive, neglectful, or violent in their family, or be considered at high risk. Men with a history of child sexual abuse are not eligible.
Is the program suitable for FIFO workers?
Yes. We are currently accepting referrals for FIFO fathers and are working to coordinate session times to accommodate FIFO rosters where possible.
Is this a court-recognised program?
Caring Dads WA is not a court-mandated program. However, professionals working in the Family Law Court are aware of the program and it is well regarded in that space.
Is there support for mothers and children?
Yes. Alongside the fathers' group, there is a dedicated service to support mothers and children. The program has three components: the 17-week group program for fathers, a mother contact service, and case management.
Is there a waitlist?
There is no waitlist at this time.
Do you work alongside CPFS or the Department of Justice?
Yes — Caring Dads WA is designed to work collaboratively. We work alongside CPFS, the Department of Justice, Family Safety Services, Family Law professionals, and community agencies.
Caring Dads facilitator training
Training events provide an opportunity to join the leading, international network of clinicians working at the nexus of gender-based violence and fatherhood.
Training is organised through the Caring Dads team in Canada, who offer virtual and in person events.
View upcoming training dates here: Facilitator Training — Caring Dads™
Interested in finding out more?
For more information about Caring Dads please complete the below form and one of our lovely Intake and Engagement team members will be in touch with you. Alternatively if you would like to speak to someone on the phone please call us on (08) 9249 8601 or email [email protected].
Caring Dads WA is delivered by Kids First Australia and is available in North Metro WA only. If you are located outside of WA, please enquire with your state-based service provider.