Father’s Day is a time to celebrate the dads, stepdads, grandfathers and father figures who support their families every day. It’s also an opportunity to recognise that while parents spend so much time investing in their children’s future, their own goals matter too.

At Parent Pathways, we work with parents and carers to identify their pre-employment goals and create a personalised plan to achieve them. Whether that means building confidence, exploring study options, developing new skills, connecting with local services, or preparing to return to work, we’re here to support parents on their journey and at a pace that works for them.

While many of the parents accessing Parent Pathways are mothers, the program is designed for all eligible parents and carers, including fathers and male carers.

“This Father’s Day, we’re encouraging dads to remember that support is available for them too,” says Silva Tecer, CVGT Employment Parent Pathways Program Manager.

Supporting fathers to plan for their future

Parenting can change career plans, priorities and opportunities.

Many fathers take on caring responsibilities, adjust work arrangements, or step away from employment to support their families. For some, returning to work can feel overwhelming. For others, it may be an opportunity to pursue a different career path, gain new skills or build confidence before taking the next step.

Parent Pathways provides personalised, one-on-one support to help parents and carers identify their goals and develop a practical plan to achieve them.

There is no pressure and no expectation to return to work before you’re ready.

Instead, Parent Pathways helps participants prepare for the future by focusing on the small, achievable steps that can lead to lasting success.

Whether your goal is to update your resume, complete a training course, connect with local support services, improve your confidence, or start planning your return to work, Parent Pathways can help you move forward at your own pace.

A Message to Fathers and Male Carers

Parent Pathways supports all eligible parents and carers, including fathers and male carers. While dads currently make up a small portion (only 3.5%) of program participants, we’re keen to raise awareness that the program is designed for them too.

Parents often put their own goals on hold while caring for others. Parent Pathways creates the space to reflect, plan and take positive steps towards their personal, study and employment goals.

We believe strong families are built when parents are supported to achieve their own goals alongside those of their children.

From our community

Being a father has changed me in many ways; it has given me purpose and has definitely turned me into a better person. One day my son will grow up, so I’m trying to appreciate these years while I can. Being my son’s dad is the greatest responsibility I’ve ever had and the greatest privilege I can’t picture life without him.
Father from Parent Pathways Program

Message from our Program Manager

Silva Tecer, Program Manager for Parent Pathways at CVGT Employment, said fathers and male carers play an important role within the program.

This Father’s Day, we celebrate the dads in Parent Pathways who are balancing the responsibilities of parenthood while working towards their personal goals. We are proud to support fathers to overcome barriers, build confidence, and create positive futures for themselves and their children.

Message from Our Area Manager

Cody Thompson says helping parents achieve their goals benefits entire families and communities.

Parent pathways is about breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities for every parent, including fathers. When we make sure fathers feel seen, supported and empowered, we’re not just helping on parent, we’re strengthening families, building confidence, and creating pathways to brighter futures.

Message from a Parent Pathways Mentor

Kay sees firsthand how personalised support helps parents take the next step.

As a Parent Pathways Mentor, it is wonderful to see dads stepping into new roles within their families. Through encouragement and personalised mentoring, the program supports dads to build confidence, overcome barriers and take positive steps towards their goals. Watching them become more involved in their children’s lives and embrace new responsibilities is incredibly rewarding.

Message from a Parent Pathways Mentor

Jess says Father’s Day is more than a celebration, it is a reminder of the lasting impact fathers have on shaping strong, healthy, and thriving families. Whether they are providing support, teaching life lessons, or simply being present during everyday moments, fathers play a vital role in helping children feel safe, valued, and empowered.

When fathers themselves are empowered to succeed, families grow stronger, children thrive, and communities benefit. Parent Pathways is committed to walking alongside fathers as they navigate parenthood, personal growth, education, and employment opportunities. By supporting fathers to achieve their goals, we help strengthen families and contribute to positive outcomes for children and communities. Every father’s journey is unique, but the impact of a caring and engaged father can last a lifetime. We celebrate all fathers and father figures for the difference they make every day.

Celebrating fathers this Father’s Day

This Father’s Day, we’re celebrating the dads, stepdads, grandfathers and father figures who make a difference every day.

We’re also reminding fathers and male carers that their goals matter.

No matter where you are in your journey, Parent Pathways can help you identify your next steps and work towards a future that’s right for you and your family.

Happy Father’s Day from the Parent Pathways team.