Media Release
Monday 10 April, 2006
Fathers figure well in children's lives
Separated fathers are playing a greater role in the lives of their children, figures just released from the Child Support Agency suggest.
Mr. Matt Miller, General Manager of the CSA, said today that new figures show a trend towards more fathers receiving child support.
"This is an interesting trend and suggests a shift towards fathers playing a more hands-on role in their children's lives," Mr. Miller said.
"These new figures indicate clearly that child support is not about gender, but about parents meeting their responsibilities for their children," Mr. Miller said.
"The trend in these figures is heartening. Research shows that children who have both parents involved in their lives benefit significantly."
"Kids look to their parents for signs that the family can and will get through difficult times such as a separation," Mr. Miller said.
The figures show
- In June, 2005, more than one in 10 parents receiving child support were men, up more than two percentage points in six years.
Significantly, more than 15 per cent of CSA's new customers during 2004-05 with care of the children were male, showing a greater percentage of fathers are actively involved in raising their children after separation.
This is supported by the fact a growing number of parents paying child support are having more contact with their children, Mr. Miller said.
- In June 2005 8.6 per cent of paying parents were having child-contact for 30 per cent or more nights in the year. This is almost double the 1999 figure of 4.5 per cent.
Mr. Barry Williams, National President of Lone Fathers Association of Australia said these figures are very encouraging.
"Lone Fathers is very happy to hear that men are taking a greater role in their children's lives and we will work with CSA to further this process."
Mr. Miller strongly urged separated parents to put their children first. "You may no longer be partners, but you are parents forever," he said.
The Child Support Agency has developed a range of free booklets full of tips and hints about the key areas of stress for separated families: children, money, personal wellbeing, and the ex partner. These can be ordered free from www.csa.gov.au or by calling 131 272.
Media contacts:
0434 605 144
CSA email: media@csa.gov.au
Barry Williams, Lone Fathers Association, 0417 668802
