Better Dads

Building Stronger Fathers, Families & Workplaces

 

 

Overview

Better Dads is a preventative, early-intervention program designed to empower fathers with the tools, skills, and support they need to build strong, healthy family relationships. Inspired by the Caring Dads model, the program promotes emotional regulation, positive parenting, and stronger connections at home and at work.

Why Better Dads Matters

Family and domestic violence (FDV) costs the Australian economy $22 billion annually — with $1.9 billion impacting businesses through absenteeism, turnover, and lost productivity. Many FDV-related behaviours, like controlling communication, spill into the workplace, creating disruptions and safety risks.

Fathers often face unique stressors — from demanding work hours and routines eg shift and FIFO, and financial pressure to societal expectations. These factors can make it harder to parent positively, leading to cycles of conflict and disconnection. Better Dads offers a positive, proactive solution.

Our Approach 

Better Dads provides a safe, supportive environment where fathers can learn, reflect, and grow:

  • Interactive Workshops
    Group-based sessions on communication, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution.

  • 1:1 Coaching
    Personalised guidance to set goals, manage challenges, and build resilience.

  • Preventative Focus
    Early identification of stressors and harmful behaviours before they escalate.

Benefits

To Employers:

  • Increased Productivity: Less stress at home means more focus at work.
  • Stronger Workplace Culture: A family-friendly, inclusive environment that retains talent.
  • Cost Savings: Lower absenteeism and turnover.
  • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Alignment: Show leadership by supporting employee well-being and healthy families.

To Employees:

    • Better Family Relationships: Provide practical skills to build trust with children and their mothers.
    • Greater Emotional Resilience: Tools to manage stress and challenges constructively.
    • Peer Support: Connect with other fathers in a safe, encouraging space.
    • Personal Growth: Enhanced self-awareness and purpose as both parent and professional.

    Program Format

    • 10 Weekly Sessions: 90-minute workshops covering key themes such as parenting, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution.
    • Individual Coaching: Tailored support for each participant.
    • Workplace Integration: Aligns with organisational values around respect and inclusion.

      Outcomes You Can Expect

      • Healthier family dynamics and reduced conflict.

      • Improved parenting practices.

      • Greater work–life balance and reduced stress.

      • Stronger performance and engagement at work.

      Join the Movement

      Better Dads is more than a parenting program — it’s a step towards a stronger, more connected community. As part of the Stronger Families Pathway, it supports positive change for families and workplaces alike.

      To refer, or self-refer to the Better Dads Program click here.