Leading the Way in Family Wellbeing with Launch of Caring Dads Program

Centacare North Queensland has reinforced its position as a regional leader in family wellbeing and therapeutic support with the launch of Caring Dads—an evidence-based program that helps fathers develop safer, more respectful parenting practices.

In response to the growing need for early intervention in domestic and family violence, Caring Dads offers a structured 17-week group program designed to support fathers who have used violence, abuse, or neglect. The program guides men through a process of reflection, accountability, and behavioural change to help rebuild trust with their children and reduce the risk of future harm.

Developed in Canada and now successfully implemented across the UK, USA, Sweden and Australia, Caring Dads is backed by international research and recently evaluated in Australia by the University of Melbourne on behalf of Kids First Australia. 

The evaluation found that the program significantly improves parenting and co-parenting practices, reduces the likelihood of children being exposed to further violence, and increases fathers’ awareness of how their behaviour impacts their families. Importantly, it also supports long-term improvements in overall family functioning—particularly when programs address both parenting and intimate partner relationships.

“Centacare NQ is proud to bring a program of this calibre to our region,” said Melissa Rake, program manager of Education and Life Skills at Centacare NQ. “Caring Dads aligns with our commitment to creating safer communities, supporting behaviour change, and strengthening families from the inside out.”

Open to biological fathers and stepfathers of children aged 0–16 who have regular contact with at least one child, the program provides a safe, therapeutic space for fathers to learn effective, non-harmful parenting techniques under the guidance of trained professionals.

This initiative further cements Centacare NQ’s standing as a trusted provider of holistic support services for individuals and families across North Queensland.