Survey of Separated Parents

The Department of Social Services is responsible for improving the economic and social well-being of Australian families. We are looking for ways to improve Family Tax Benefit (FTB) and the Child Support Scheme. We want to ensure these programs are working for parents, so they receive the financial support they are entitled to.

We have asked the Social Research Centre (SRC) to conduct the Survey of Separated Parents for us. The SRC is an independent research organisation owned by the Australian National University.

The Survey of Separated Parents is a chance to have a say on important matters that affect separated parents and their families. It is focussed on the experiences of parents receiving FTB for a child from a previous relationship.

Participation in the Survey

Some parents who receive FTB will receive a letter from SRC inviting them to take part in this research. Parents are randomly selected to be invited because they receive FTB payments. Letters will be sent between October and November 2024.

Participation is voluntary and parents who receive the letter do not need to respond if they don’t want to take part.

Each letter will have a unique QR code and link to complete an expression of interest form. There are 3 different ways to take part:

  • online interview (60 minutes)
  • online survey (about 15 minutes)
  • online discussion board (open for 3 days).

Parents will be asked to take part in one activity, not all 3. Parents will receive a GiftPay e-voucher of at least $30.

Survey questions

Participants will be asked questions about their FTB experience. If they also receive child support, there will be questions about this experience.

Privacy and personal information

Privacy is a priority. All information parents share with the SRC is confidential and will only be used for research.

Any information used will be strictly anonymous. Parent’s names and personal information will not be shared with us, or any other Government department. Taking part in this research will not affect any payments you receive.

More information

Find more information about the SRC research project on the SRC website.

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