Media Release
Friday 1 September, 2006
Father's Day—Separated Dads Playing a Greater Role
Latest Child Support Agency figures show separated fathers are playing a much greater role in the lives of their children.
The CSA's General Manager, Matt Miller said, "More than 21 per cent of cases registered with CSA in the first six months of 2006 had a male receiving child support, which means the dads were the majority carer—almost double the rate across the total of all CSA cases."
"Father's Day is an opportune time for fathers to be recognised for the vital contribution they make to their children's lives."
Mr Miller said many fathers clearly wanted to spend more time with their children after separation.
"Father's Day may be a good opportunity for resident parents to talk with their ex about contact between their children."
"Where there is little contact, I encourage parents to put the interests of their children first and use the Government's new Family Relationship Centres to help negotiate a better balance," said Mr Miller.
"Research shows that children will do better at school, have better social skills and are less likely to get into trouble where both parents play a positive role in their children's lives," he said.
To help separated parents stay involved with their kids when they no longer live with them, the CSA's developed a free booklet called Me and My Kids.
"Me and My kids is full of tips and hints to help parents build on their relationship with their children after separation including: parenting from a distance; what to do when your kids come to stay; understanding your children's behaviour, how to get on with the ex; and parenting together while apart," said Mr Miller.
Mr Miller urged separated parents to put their children first. "You may no longer be partners but you are parents forever," he said.
To order any of CSAs free booklets contact 1800 040 972 or visit www.csa.gov.au.
Media contact:
02 6272 8540
Media enquiries should be directed to media@csa.gov.au
