Research to inform government policy and family services

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Media release 18 May 2023

New mothers staying connected to the workforce

A new report by the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) has found that women are increasingly remaining employed when they take time off to have a baby, demonstrating the uptake of parental leave in recent years.

Media release 15 May 2023

Teens volunteering protects against poor mental health

A new report by the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) has found that if a child is involved in volunteering before the age of 13, the odds of having poor mental health are reduced by around 28%.

Latest research

A young mixed race African American mother holds her daughter while taking notes at her dining table serving as a temporary remote work from home station with breast pump in foreground.

Research report

May 2023

Employment patterns and trends for families with children

This detailed look at family employment trends shows the very significant changes that have come about over recent decades.

Sign text closeup for help wanted with red and white colors by entrance to store shop business building during corona virus covid 19 pandemic.

Facts & figures

May 2023

Employment of men and women across the life course

This Facts and Figures summarises information about employment participation, with a focus on gender and age differences,…

Two teenage boys are in a skate park. One boy is laying on the ground on his back, he has fallen. The other has extended his arm to help him back on his feet.

Commissioned report

May 2023

Prosocial behaviours and the positive impact on mental…

This snapshot examines what effect, over time, the cultivation and/or promotion of informal and formal prosocial behaviours has on poor mental health

Silhouette of a man and woman having an argument at home.

Practice guide

May 2023

Reproductive coercion and abuse

This practice guide describes the evidence on reproductive coercion and abuse (RCA).

Smiling little girl talks to a cheerful child psychotherapist during a therapy session in the office.

Practice guide

May 2023

Involving children in evaluation

This guide outlines the reasons to involve children in program evaluation and includes some practical considerations and approaches to collecting data from children.