Families First
Families First is a service delivered by FamilyCare in agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Child Protection service. On a statewide level, Families First has operated in Victoria since 1992. The department established Families First as an alternative to out-of-home placement. Families First continues to support families whom are at imminent risk of having their child, or children, removed by Child Protection services.
Families First provides intensive in-home family assessment and life skills education. Throughout the service delivery, the best interests and safety of the child are always paramount (s.11 “Child, Youth and Families Act,” 2005).
Eligibility:
Referrals are accepted only from Department of Human Services Child Protection where there is a clear and present need for a child or young person to be placed in alternative care owing to the likelihood of serious harm occurring.Talk to your child protection case manager if you think Families First might be helpful for you.
Service Area:
Shepparton – City of Greater Shepparton and the Shire of Moira.
Seymour – Shires of Mitchell, Strathbogie and Murrindindi.
Contact a Families First Program Leader:
Shepparton: 0358 237 000
Seymour: 0357 354 600
