This resource summarises the evidence on the effectiveness of parenting programs, which populations they can support and when they can be effective. Parenting programs include a diverse range of interventions that aim to improve child outcomes by supporting parents and caregivers. 

In Australia, parenting programs are delivered across community, health and education sectors in a variety of settings, and are often provided as part of government funded child and family supports.

The report finds that although the evidence for which specific components make programs effective is still developing, the programs overall can be effective for both general and specific populations.

Key findings

• There is no single type of parenting program or program component that can be said to be the most effective across all child or parent outcomes or populations.
• Parenting programs that focus on treating existing challenges report larger effects on outcomes than do prevention programs. This is likely because improvements in outcomes are easier to detect when the initial challenges are more severe
• It is important to assess a family’s individual needs to understand which type of parenting program is most suitable for their circumstances, and whether they require support to prevent or address challenges.