Submission to Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs Inquiry into ParentsNext
FECCA’s submission to the Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs regarding the ParentsNext program highlights significant concerns about its implementation, particularly its impact on Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities. FECCA critiques the program’s compulsory nature and strict reporting requirements, which place undue burdens on parents, especially those from CALD backgrounds who may face language barriers, limited access to technology, and challenges navigating the system. The submission notes that these issues undermine the program’s original intent of being a supportive initiative, turning it into an inflexible and, at times, punitive process.
FECCA calls for an independent review of ParentsNext, focusing on its Targeted Compliance Framework and how the program can better address the needs of CALD participants. While acknowledging positive aspects such as access to services, English programs, and pathways to skill development, FECCA stresses that these benefits are at risk under the current model. Advocating for greater flexibility, improved communication about translation services, and reduced digital reporting burdens to ensure the program genuinely supports participants and promotes their empowerment.
