International experts will discuss the challenges of developing a policy framework for parenting in Australia at a conference hosted by the Social Policy Research Centre at UNSW on Thursday April 8.

With increased national awareness that parenting is the most important influence on children's development and wellbeing, the Federal Government now views direct provision of support for parents as a priority issue.

The conference is part of a project commissioned by the Australian Government's Department of Families and Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) and will be attended by experts from around the globe, including the UK, the US, Ireland and New Zealand.

Presenters will discuss the most effective population-based parenting programs and universal and targeted parenting policies for vulnerable groups - including young parents, Indigenous parents, grandparent/kinship carers, parents with a disability (especially mental health), parents with substance abuse issues, and parents caring for a child with a disability.

The outcomes will feed into a presentation and policy discussions to be held with government officials.

Conference speakers include:

The full conference program is available at the SPRC website

What: SPRC Conference - Towards a Parenting Policy Framework for AustraliaWhen: Thursday 8 April, 2010Where: AGSM Building, UNSW Kensington campus

Media contact: Susi Hamilton, UNSW media unit | 9385 1583 | 0422 934 024