Community Services Minister Robyn McSweeney today took the first step in revitalising the State’s parenting services by launching Parenting WA, which replaces the Parent Help Centre.

Mrs McSweeney said the service, based in Mount Lawley, would provide Western Australian families with support and information about parenting, child care and early childhood programs from a single reliable and credible source.

The Parenting Line, a telephone service providing information and advice on caring for children up to the age of 18, was available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1800 654 432 or 6279 1200. Country residents can call this hotline and request free resources.

“Changing the name of the centre to Parenting WA is more than just a new sign on the door - it recognises that it is natural for all parents to seek information and assistance,” Mrs McSweeney said.

“The staff have done a fantastic job over the years, but it is obvious to me that a change in focus was needed - wanting access to good quality information should not be seen as needing help.

“Parenting WA will become a contemporary first port of call for any of the information parents need, such as how to recognise quality child care, available childhood programs, or even how to support a friend struggling with teenagers.”

The Minister said she had discussed with her Cabinet colleagues about building connections with other Government agencies that also provided parenting services and would also consult widely with other organisations that worked with families to set the priorities for Parenting WA.

At the launch, several Parenting WA staff members were recognised for their years of service to the centre, which was established in 1976.

Certificate of service recipients were:

• Cath Dunleavy (Lesmurdie) for 28 years of service
• Sharon Fiorentino (Padbury) and Colleen Dransfield (Hamersley) for 25 years of service
• Ingrid Vajda (Noranda) for 23 years of service
• Anne Teede (Harrisdale) for 21 years of service.

Minister's office - 9222 8950