This paper combines literature and research with the experiences of staff at the Stepfamily Association of Victoria (SAVI) in delivering counselling, support and education to stepfamilies over the past 25 years. The paper discusses problems in defining and quantifying the number of stepfamilies, the complexities inherent in the contemporary stepfamily, and key differences between stepfamilies...

The fertility rate in Australia, like almost all OECD countries, is below the level required for population replacement. This paper provides an overview of trends in fertility in Australia and the potential implications of these trends. The fertility rate in Australia, like almost all OECD countries, is below the level required for population replacement. This...

Social, economic and technological change has altered the way in which families spend time together. Important changes include increases in maternal employment, part-time employment and the number of people living alone. There have also been higher levels of geographic mobility, lower fertility rates and the development of affordable communication technology such as the mobile phone...

This paper looks at the employment aspirations and expectations of mothers with and without long-term health problems, and the relationship between their desire to work and the reality of their participation in the labour force.

The aim of the report’s authors was to bridge the gulf between knowledge and action, especially with reference to the Australian child welfare sector. Research evidence can powerfully inform policy and practice. Too often, however, this is not the case.