A new family support program offers help for parents and children. It will help at-risk families stay together safely. The Sutherland Shire service has struck a new government deal to expand its vital program. Picture supplied

A trusted pillar of the Sutherland Shire community is set to broaden its reach and deepen its impact following a significant new appointment by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ).

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The Family Co, a not-for-profit with a 38-year legacy of supporting children and families, has been selected to deliver the Families Together Program across the South Eastern Sydney region starting July 1, 2026.

This initiative marks a new chapter for the organisation as it transitions from the existing Intensive Family Preservation (IFP) model to the newly recommissioned Families Together program.

Designed to be both collaborative and data-informed, the program focuses on building a family's inherent strengths to ensure children can grow up in safe, nurturing environments.

Across one year, families will receive tailored support covering everything from parenting skills and child development to practical help in the home.

The expansion is a major win for shire employment and community service capacity, with The Family Co announcing the creation of six new professional roles to facilitate the rollout.

Michelle Fairweather, head of operations at The Family Co, said the expansion allows the team to "walk alongside" even more families in the region, helping them move from a state of surviving to one of thriving.

The program is specifically designed for families with children aged 0 to 17 who may be at risk, offering specialised assistance including cultural consultations and interpreters for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) households. By extending its footprint further into South Eastern Sydney, The Family Co reinforces its commitment to keeping children safely at home with their loved ones whenever possible.

As the organisation prepares for the July launch, recruitment is already underway. Those interested in joining the team or learning more about the program's role in domestic violence prevention and family support are encouraged to visit thefamilyco.org.au/jobs for further details on the newly available positions.

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic violence or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000. For crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.