Career guidance
Personalised support to explore education, training or future work options that align with your goals and circumstances.
Flexible support that fits around you
Returning to work, study or training is a big decision — and it looks different for every family. Delivered in partnership with the Australian Government, Parent Pathways is a voluntary program providing personalised support to help you build skills, address barriers, and explore future education, training or work options when you’re ready. Because participation is voluntary, you remain in control of your journey at all times.
We understand that raising young children can be unpredictable. Our family‑friendly approach means you can join, take a break, or adjust your participation as your circumstances change. You’ll work one‑on‑one with a dedicated mentor to create a personalised support plan that evolves with you and reflects your goals.
Support is available in person, online or by phone, with flexible appointment times designed to fit around your family and caring responsibilities.
Tailored career guidance to match your personal goals
Assistance finding and accessing childcare and childcare financial support
Financial help for short courses and essential items
Family‑friendly appointments where your children are always welcome
Support we offer
Your mentor will work with you to identify the right mix of support to help reduce barriers and prepare for your next steps when you’re ready.
Training and short courses
Access to short courses and skill‑building opportunities to help you prepare for your next steps when you’re ready.
Language and literacy support
Support to strengthen language, literacy and communication skills to build confidence and participation.
Childcare support
Support to help you explore local childcare services and access available childcare support and financial assistance.
Financial assistance
Help with funding for training, essential items and other participation costs, based on individual needs.
Family and DV support
Safe, discreet access to services for parents and carers experiencing family and domestic violence.
Eligibility
Eligibility depends on your circumstances, and there are several ways parents and carers may be able to access support through Parent Pathways.
Parent Pathways is available to unemployed parents and carers who would like support to plan their next steps at a pace that works for their family. You may be eligible if you:
- Have a child under the age of six
- Are not in paid employment
- Live in an area where a Parent Pathways provider operates
You may be eligible for Parent Pathways if you are currently receiving one of the following payments:
- Parenting Payment
- Carer Payment
- Special Benefit
You may still be eligible for Parent Pathways even if you are not receiving a Centrelink payment, including if you are:
- Under 22 years of age
- An early school leaver (no Year 12 qualification)
- A First Nations parent or carer
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, you’re encouraged to get in touch or register to discuss your circumstances.
Parent Pathways is delivered by MRAEL in the Mackay region, with support available through local, mobile and outreach services across surrounding communities.
Our service locations include:
- Mackay
- Bowen
- Cannonvale
- Clermont
- Collinsville
- Dysart
- Moranbah
- Nebo
- Proserpine
- Sarina
If you’re unsure whether Parent Pathways is available in your area, you’re encouraged to get in touch to discuss your circumstances.
Our team
Meet our mentors
Rebekah Nott
Regional Leader
Nakoya McLennan
Parent Pathways Mentor
Valerie Olsen
Parent Pathways Mentor
Dianne Mooney
Parent Pathways Coordinator
Cheyenne Rawlings
Business Administration Trainee
Rebekah Nott
Regional Leader
Nakoya McLennan
Parent Pathways Mentor
Valerie Olsen
Parent Pathways Mentor
Dianne Mooney
Parent Pathways Coordinator
Cheyenne Rawlings
Business Administration Trainee
Location maps
Find your local support centre
Blog
Hear stories from our Parent Pathways network
Tell us how we’re doing
We are committed to providing the best possible support for parents and guardians. If you’ve had an experience you’d like to share—good or bad—please follow the link to our feedback portal.
