This paper provides an overview of trends in fertility in Australia and the potential implications of these trends. It also discusses various explanations that have been provided for fertility trends and key family policies.

In Australia and internationally, while the need for foster carers has been rising, there have been decreasing numbers of individuals willing to foster. This has been attributed to the greater participation of women in the workforce, the inadequacy of remuneration provided to carers, increasing expectations of carers, and attrition as existing carers age. These and...

As one part of the Australian Government's National Review of Drought Policy, an assessment of the social impacts of drought on farm families and rural communities was undertaken by an expert panel. To support this inquiry, this submission provides preliminary information from the Regional and Rural Families Survey, which includes estimates of the social and...

As one part of the Australian Government's National Review of Drought Policy, an economic assessment of drought support measures was undertaken by the Productivity Commission. To support this inquiry, this submission provides preliminary information from the Regional and Rural Families Survey, which includes estimates of the social and economic impact of drought on families in...

Magellan is a case-management pathway in the Family Court of Australia for cases where serious allegations are raised about sexual or physical abuse of children in post-separation parenting matters. This report evaluates the Magellan case-management model.