Review of program performance and contribution to outcomes

The Institute's research program is structured around six themes:

• economic wellbeing of families;
• families and work;
• social inclusion;
• violence, abuse and neglect;
• family transitions and family law; and
• children, young people and their families.

The majority of the Institute's research projects relate to more than one research theme. A summary of the Institute's research projects and how they relate to these themes is provided in Table 3.3.

The Institute conducts its research to deliver information that is:

• rigorous, high-quality and credible;
• relevant to current and emerging policy, professional, research and community interests relating to family functioning and wellbeing;
• responsive, timely and targeted in its delivery; and
• effectively and efficiently communicated to all stakeholders.

Research activities are either initiated by the Institute or commissioned by an external body. Institute-initiated research is generally funded from the budget appropriation.

Research projects conducted by the Institute vary significantly in both scale and type, and include:

• research projects that provide evidence relating to current and emerging social policy issues;
• major evaluations and reviews of government policies and programs;
• longitudinal studies that provide valuable data on the social and emotional development of children;
• specialist advisory services commissioned by government agencies; and
• clearinghouses that identify, collect, evaluate and synthesise research resources about a specialist field and disseminate that information to policy and practice professionals.

See a detailed description of the Institute's research projects.

Performance in relation to deliverables

AIFS delivers research-based information and services through:

• research outputs commissioned by external bodies, including literature reviews, reviews or reports on government programs and legislation, and longitudinal studies;
• publications, such as the Family Matters journal, research papers, clearinghouse publications, and articles in externally published journals and books;
• submissions made to parliamentary inquiries and advisory services to government;
• communications services, including management of national clearinghouses, distribution of electronic newsletters, management of websites, and library helpdesk services; and
• AIFS and LSAC conferences and the AIFS Seminar Series, external presentations, workshops, and forums.

The communication of research findings is targeted to three broad groups:

• policy-makers, to inform the development and review of policies and programs affecting families;
• service providers, to improve professional practice that supports families; and
• the general and research communities, to raise understanding and knowledge of family functioning.

Table 3.1 shows the actual deliverables for 2010-11 and the estimated trend indicators for 2011-12 to 2013-14.

Performance in relation to factors affecting deliverables

The first and second deliverables - research outputs and publications - comprise the core deliverables of the Institute. Although the number of outputs was slightly lower in 2010-11 than targetted, they include several substantial and high-quality reports involving considerable research resources, as outlined in the Details of Research Activities.

The third deliverable - submissions to parliamentary inquiries - was exceeded in 2010-11 due to the number of relevant inquiries being examined in Parliament.

The fourth deliverable - communication services - generated a significantly greater number of bibliographic records. Although the number of Helpdesk queries was lower this year, this is likely to reflect substantial increases in the use of the Institute's websites (see Table 3.2).

The fifth deliverable - conferences, seminars, presentations and representations - exceeded the expected outputs for presentations and representations. Fewer seminars were held than anticipated due to speaker cancellations/unavailability and seasonal factors.

Performance in relation to key performance indicators

Key performance indicators

The Institute's research and communications performance is measured against five performance indicators. Combined, the performance indicators quantify the quality, relevance and responsiveness of the Institute's research activities and the effectiveness and reach of its communications.

Research

• Number of commissioning bodies and funding agreements.
• Number of public submissions to government inquiries that cite AIFS-authored research.

Communication

• Number of AIFS publications distributed and downloaded (see also Publications).
• Number of media mentions - online, print, television and radio (see also Media coverage).

Organisational capability

• Qualifications and professional experience of AIFS staff (for further details, see Management of human resources).

Table 3.2 shows the actual key performance indicators for 2008-09 to 2010-11 and the estimated trend indicators for 2011-12 to 2013-14.

Performance in relation to factors affecting key performance indicators

The Institute's trend information derives from five key performance indicators. Trend forecasts take into account the Institute's risk analysis and its examination of external factors that may influence its future performance.

The first indicator - the number of commissioning bodies and funding agreements - was exceeded in 2010-11. The number of different commissioning agencies is dependent on the alignment of portfolios' policy objectives to the Institute's funded research outcomes. The number of funding agreements is dependent, to a significant extent, on whether agencies choose to rely on their own inhouse research or seek expertise externally, and the ongoing financial capacity of other agencies to commission research from the Institute.

The second indicator - the number of public submissions to government inquiries that cite AIFS-authored research - indicates the credibility and relevance of Institute research to matters of public policy and parliamentary scrutiny. Trend predictions will vary considerably in line with the number of government inquiries undertaken in areas of relevance to the Institute's expertise.

The third indicator - the number of the Institute's publications that are distributed and downloaded - significantly exceeded expectations. Though the number of print publications was substantially reduced as planned, the total distribution of publications increased, with a significant rise in the number of publications downloaded from the Institute's websites.

The fourth indicator - the number of mentions of Institute research in the media - indicates the relevance and timeliness of the Institute's activities and the level of community interest in the issues being researched. Media mentions in 2010-11 exceeded expectations due to substantial coverage during the AIFS Conference.

The fifth indicator - the qualifications and professional experience of the Institute's staff - indicates the depth of the Institute's intellectual capital and its relevance to a broad range of professional bodies.

Social inclusion outcomes

Much of the research conducted by the Institute provides an evidence base that may be used to advance social inclusion outcomes in Australia. For example, in this reporting period, the Institute conducted research on social inclusion/exclusion, care of Indigenous children, neighbourhoods and child wellbeing, rural and regional families, work-family balance, caring for children with a disability, homelessness, children in out-home-care, and sexual assault. The Institute's research outputs on these and other topics are used to inform the development of social policy and the delivery of social services.

Report on performance - Research activities

Details of research activities

Access to Early Childhood Education and Care Services

The aim of this project is to identify gaps in access to and participation in preschool programs. It stems from the COAG Early Childhood Reform Agenda and is designed to provide high-quality information on how to better define and measure "access" to early childhood education services in Australia, thus helping to inform the National Partnership on Early Childhood Education.

In 2010-11, AIFS commenced the project and devised a scoping study of the available data sources that will inform tasks to be undertaken in 2011-12.

Australian Temperament Project

The Australian Temperament Project is a longitudinal study following young people's psychosocial development from infancy into adulthood. It investigates the contribution of personal, family, peer and broader environmental factors to adjustment and wellbeing. The Institute has managed and taken the lead in the study since 2000, in conjunction with researchers from the University of Melbourne, Deakin University and the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne.

The study began in 1983 with the recruitment of 2,443 Victorian infants and their families. Fifteen waves of data collection have been completed across the first 28 years of life. Aspects assessed range from attributes and assets - such as temperament style, social skills, family and peer relationships, and school adjustment - to problems and difficulties - such as antisocial behaviour, substance abuse, anxiety and depression. The focus has widened in recent years to encompass employment and career development, relationship formation and dissolution, marriage and parenthood aspirations, and social and civic participation.

The 15th data collection wave at age 27-28 years was completed in June 2011. This was partially funded by an ARC Discovery Grant. Information was collected about the 27-28 year olds' educational and occupational participation; psychosocial attributes and strengths; physical health; relationships with parents, peers and partners; attitudes towards marriage and parenthood; adjustment problems and risk-taking behaviours; and prosocial behaviour and civic engagement. For the first time in the project's history, the survey was made available online (although study members were able to complete the survey by mail or telephone if they preferred). The move to an online format appears to have been popular, with approximately 80% of young people surveyed selecting this option.

As with past surveys, ATP parents reported on many of the same aspects of life as their adult children. However, the Wave 15 survey also contained a greater focus on the ATP parents themselves (i.e., their own personality, driving experiences, community involvement, relationships). Information was also collected about the experiences of those who had become grandparents.

In addition to undertaking the 15th wave of data collection, statistical analysis and the dissemination of findings from the longitudinal dataset continued during 2010 and 2011. Issues investigated included: (a) the factors and processes that promote positive development; (b) the onset and persistence of risk-taking and adjustment difficulties (e.g., harmful alcohol use, depression); and (c) the contribution of childhood experiences (e.g., school bullying, child maltreatment) to later wellbeing and adjustment. Dissemination activities included a symposium showcasing ATP findings at the 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference.

Publication(s)

• O'Connor, M., Hawkins, M., Toumbourou, J., Sanson, A., Letcher, P., & Olsson, C. (2011). The relationship between social capital and depression during the transition to adulthood. Australian Journal of Psychology, 63, 26-35.
• O'Connor, M., Sanson, A., Hawkins, M. T., Letcher, P., Toumbourou, J. W., Smart, D., Vassallo, S. & Olsson, C. (2011). Predictors of positive development in emerging adulthood. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 40, 860-874.
• Price-Robertson, R., Smart, D., & Bromfield, L. (2010). Family is for life: Connections between childhood family experiences and wellbeing in early adulthood. Family Matters, 85, 7-17.
• Renda, J., & Vassallo, S. (2010). Year 2010 newsletter to all ATP members. Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Renda, J., & Vassallo, S. (2010). Year 2010 newsletter to all ATP parents. Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Renda, J., Vassallo, S., & Edwards, B. (2011). Bullying in early adolescence and its association with anti-social behaviour, criminality and violence 6 and 10 years later. Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health, 21, 117-127.

Presentation(s)

• Lodge, J. (2010, 8 July). The bully-victim continuum: Stability of peer victimisation in school and patterns of internalising and externalising problems in early adulthood. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• O'Connor, M., Sanson, A., & Frydenberg, E. (2010, 8 July). What is the relationship between positive development and psychopathology in early adulthood? A comparison of three models. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Price-Robertson, R., Bromfield, L., & Vassallo, S. (2010, 7 July). What is the prevalence of child abuse and neglect in Australia? A review of the evidence. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Redmond, G., Gubhaju, B., Smart, D., & Katz, I. (2010, 8 July). Parents' education and children's outcomes: Is the gradient getting steeper? 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Smart, D. (2010, 28 August). How do young Australians in their mid twenties perceive life, relationships, marriage and parenthood? Marriage and Relationship Educators Association of Australia, Victorian Branch State Conference, Melbourne.

Caring for Disabled Children

The Caring for Disabled Children project aims to examine demographic characteristics of parents caring for their disabled children and to project the number of parents caring for disabled children in forthcoming decades, based on population projections by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The analyses will pay more attention to older parent carers than their younger counterparts. The key dataset is the Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers 2009. The 2006 Census data will also be used where appropriate.

Driving Behaviour Study

The Driving Behaviour Study uses data from the Australian Temperament Project to examine the road safety behaviours of young people, and the personal, family and wider environmental factors associated with differing profiles of driving behaviour.

The study began in 2002 when the ATP sample was 19-20 years old. At this time, information was collected on study members' learner driving experiences, current driving patterns and risky driving behaviours. These data were used in conjunction with data from previous survey waves to investigate the personal, family and wider environmental factors associated with differing types of driving behaviours.

Similar data on driver behaviour were collected in 2006 when the young people were 23-24 years old. This second set of "road safety data" was analysed in 2009. Analyses focused on: (a) driving behaviour trends at 23-24 years of age; (b) connections between differing types of driving behaviours at 23-24 years, such as speeding, drink driving, crash involvement and risky driving; (c) stability and change in risky driving from 19-20 to 23-24 years; (d) links between substance use and driving; and (e) family, personal and lifestyle influences on young people's driving behaviour. An AIFS Research Report outlining the findings of these analyses was released in 2010.

During the reporting period, the RACV and TAC commissioned the Institute to prepare two journal articles focusing on the findings of the second phase of this project. Preparation of the first of these two articles, which examines the stability of risky driving behaviour over early adulthood, is near completion, and the second is underway.

Presentation(s)

• Harris, A., Vassallo, S., Smart, D., Cockfield, S., Gunatillake, T., & Harrison, W. (2010, 2 September). Risky driving among young Victorian drivers: A longitudinal study. Australasian Road Safety Research, Policing & Education Conference, Canberra.
• Vassallo, S., Smart. D., Cockfield, S., Gunatillake, T., Harris, A., & Harrison, W. (2010, 8 July). Drink- and drug-driving amongst drivers in their mid-20s: Trends, stability and co-occurrence with other risky driving practices. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.

Economic Value of Positive Family Functioning

To date, few studies have investigated the social and economic costs associated with certain aspects of family functioning, the costs of child poverty and the intergenerational transmission of disadvantage. To establish the public value of positive family functioning and the economic returns to government on supporting families, Access Economics, in partnership with the Institute, has:

• quantified the economic value of positive family functioning and the returns to government on its investment in supporting family functioning; and
• assessed some family interventions in terms of their cost-effectiveness/costs benefits in supporting family functioning.

For the most part, AIFS' involvement has been restricted to the analysis of ATP data, which has been completed. The report, authored by Access Economics, has been published by FaHCSIA. The contribution of AIFS is acknowledged in this report.

Evidence-Based Interventions for Children and Young People

The Institute has been commissioned by the Commissioner for Children and Young People, Western Australia, to develop a compilation of evidence-based programs and services in Western Australia that demonstrate best practice or most promising practice in enhancing the wellbeing of children and young people. This project will result in an easy-to-use report that will profile around 40 programs and services for children and young people. It forms part of the Commissioner's larger Wellbeing Monitoring Framework, which is designed to develop an evidence-based, repeatable data collection framework that monitors specific indicators of children and young people's wellbeing.

The project involves conducting a literature search for evidence-based programs and services for children and young people and compiling an initial "long list" of around 100 programs or services. An evaluation tool - designed to assess the quality and evidence of the programs and services in the "long list" - will then be developed and used to shorten the "long list" down to a final "short list" of roughly 40 programs and services, which will be profiled in the final report. The focus of the 2010-11 financial year was the completion of the "long list" and the initial development of the evaluation tool.

Family Attitudes and Values

The aim of this study is to monitor attitudes, values and aspirations relating to family issues. The monitoring of such matters in the general population can improve understanding of family trends, such as patterns of leaving home, partnership formation and marriage, having children, parental employment and family life involvement, relationship breakdown, post-separation parenting, and repartnering. Monitoring and understanding of broad trends in family transitions is important for proactive policy development, and it can help shape the timely development of new research projects.

The Family Attitudes and Values research project commenced with the development of a comprehensive list of relevant measures that have been used in Australia and overseas. This item bank will continue to be updated as a research resource. The second stage of the project will involve a survey of values and attitudes.

Family Law: Coordinated Family Dispute Resolution in Family Violence Cases Evaluation Study

The aim of this project is to evaluate a pilot program for multidisciplinary dispute resolution processes in cases where there has been family violence and the parties are attempting to reach agreement on post-separation parenting arrangements. Funded by the AGD, the pilot is being conducted in five metropolitan locations. The process involves each parent and their lawyer, a case manager, a social worker or equivalent for each parent, and a family dispute resolution practitioner. The evaluation design involves six studies that use a mixture of qualitative and quantitative studies intended to canvass the perspectives of the professionals and clients involved in the pilot, in addition to administrative data. The six studies that form part of this evaluation are: Study 1: Initial interviews with professionals; Study 2: Focus groups with professionals; Study 3: Online survey of professionals; Study 4: Process and outcomes data collection; Study 5: Parent interviews; and Study 6: Online survey of parents.

At 30 June 2011, data collection for Study 1 had been completed in four out of the five locations and had begun for Study 4; research design and ethical clearance for Study 2 had been completed; research design for Study 5 had been completed, with ethical clearance pending; and design work for Studies 5 and 6 were advanced.

Family Law: Evaluation of the Family Relationships Centres' Legal Assistance Partnerships Program

The aim of this project was to evaluate an initiative of the Attorney-General's Department that aimed to help separated or separating families by providing them with access to early and targeted legal information and advice when attending Family Relationship Centres (FRCs). Sixty-four FRCs entered into arrangements with a range of community-based legal centres that provided a range of specified legal services to FRC clients. The evaluation design consisted of five studies of FRC and legal services staff and their clients.

The evaluation was completed in December 2010 and a draft report provided to AGD. The report was published by AGD in June 2011.

Publications

• Moloney, L., Kaspiew, R., De Maio, J., Deblaquiere, J., Hand, K., & Horsfall, B. (2011). Evaluation of the Family Relationship Centre legal assistance partnerships program: Final report. Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Presentations

• Moloney, L. (2011, 17 June). Evaluation of the Family Relationship Centre legal assistance partnerships program. Legal Aid NSW Legal Ethics Conference, Parramatta, NSW.

Family Law: Experiences of Parents and Children After Family Court Decisions About Relocation

The aim of this project was to explore the impact of court decisions involving relocation disputes on families. In addition to a literature review, the study included:

• an analysis of all Family Court relocation judgements handed down between 2002 and 2004 - access to the judgements was negotiated through the court and they provided benchmark data that assisted in developing understanding of relocation decision-making generally and the impact of the Family Law Amendment (Shared Parental Responsibility) Act 2006 (Cth) in this area; and
• a series of one-to-one interviews with 38 mothers and fathers who had litigated disputes over relocation in the Family Court of Australia and the Federal Magistrates Court between 2002 and June 2005.

The Chief Investigators for this project were Associate Professor Juliet Behrens and Associate Professor Bruce Smyth of the ANU. Dr Rae Kaspiew, AIFS, was a Partner Investigator. The project was completed during 2009-10; however, dissemination of findings continued through 2010-11.

Publication(s)

• Behrens, J., & Smyth, B. (2010). Australian family law court decisions on relocation: Parents' experiences and some implications for law and policy. Federal Law Review, 38(1), 1-20.
• Behrens, J., Smyth, B., & Kaspiew, R. (2010). Outcomes in relocation decisions: Some new data. Australian Journal of Family Law, 24(1), 97-103.
• Horsfall, B., & Kaspiew, R. (2010). Relocation in separated and not-separated families: Equivocal evidence from the social science literature. Australian Journal of Family Law, 24(1), 34-56.
• Kaspiew, R., Behrens, J., & Smyth, B. (2011). Relocation disputes in separated families prior to the 2006 reforms: An empirical study. Family Matters, 86, 72-78.

Presentation(s)

• Behrens, J., Smyth, B., & Kaspiew, R. (2010, 2 July). Australian Family Law Court decisions about relocation: Parents' experiences and some implications for policy. International Child Abduction, Forced Marriage and Relocation Conference, London.
• Kaspiew, R. (2011, 15 February). Litigated relocation disputes 2002-2005: An empirical study. AIFS Seminar Series, Melbourne.
• Kaspiew, R., Behrens, J., & Smyth, B. (2010, 8 July). Family violence in relocation disputes: A pre-reform exploration. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.

Family Law Reform Evaluation (and associated longitudinal research)

In response to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Family and Community Affairs (2003) Every Picture Tells a Story report, the Australian Government undertook a major reform of the family law system. The new system, which came into effect on 1 July 2006, was intended to: (a) help prevent separation and build strong, healthy family relationships; (b) encourage greater involvement by both parents in their children's lives after separation, and also protect children from violence and abuse; (c) in the case of separation, provide information, advice and dispute resolution services to help parents agree on what is best for their children, rather than contesting parenting proposals in the courtroom; and (d) provide a new entry point that is a doorway to other services that families need, and facilitate access to those services.

The AGD and FaHCSIA had joint responsibility for the implementation and evaluation of the family law reforms and for the associated longitudinal research. These departments commissioned the Institute to develop an evaluation framework and a broad methodology for the evaluation, collect baseline data against which the collection of future data can be compared, and undertake key components of the evaluation. The projects tracked the impact of key themes in the package - the sharing of parenting responsibilities, child safety and child focus - on the practices and attitudes of parents, service system providers and legal system players. A mixture of quantitative and qualitative methods using multiple data sources was applied across the evaluation and a final evaluation report was released on 28 January 2010. Requests for AIFS to discuss findings of this evaluation have continued into 2011.

The "associated longitudinal research" component extended into 2010-11 and entailed the preparation of a report on Wave 2 of the Longitudinal Study of Separated Families (LSSF) and a survey of adolescents with a parent who participated in the first two waves of the LSSF (outlined below).

Family Pathways: The Longitudinal Study of Separated Families

Family Pathways: The Longitudinal Study of Separated Families explored questions about separation and caring for children when a relationship ends. In Wave 1, which was conducted between August and October 2008, information was collected from some 10,000 parents who separated after the introduction of the reforms in July 2006. Of these parents, 7,031 were re-interviewed in September-December 2009. Findings from Wave 1 of this study contributed strongly to the Institute's evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms. A subsequent research report (completed in December 2010) outlined findings from both Waves 1 and 2. It highlighted, among other issues, the extent to which parenting arrangements, relationships between parents, and parents' views of their child's wellbeing have changed; family law system pathways adopted in finalising or changing arrangements after Wave 1; and factors linked with any changes in arrangements, relationships and apparent wellbeing. The AGD publicly released this report in 2011.

Family Pathways: Study of Adolescents

Family Pathways: Study of Adolescents focused on the experiences and opinions of young people whose parents separated after the introduction of the reforms in July 2006. The study complemented the longitudinal study by recruiting adolescents aged 12-18 years whose parents participated in the Longitudinal Study of Separated Families. Interviews with the young people were conducted between October and November 2009 and sought to capture their views about the changes in their families. This report was also completed in December 2010 and publicly released by the AGD in 2011.

Publication(s)

• Lodge, J., & Alexander, M. (2010). Views of adolescents in separated families: A study of adolescents' experiences after the 2006 reforms to the family law system. Canberra: Attorney-General's Department.
• Kaspiew, R., Gray, M., Weston, R., Moloney, L., Hand, K., Qu, L., & the Family Law Evaluation Team. (2010). Family violence: Key findings from the evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms. Family Matters, 85, 38-48.
• Kaspiew, R., Gray, M., Weston, R., Moloney, L., Hand, K., & Qu, L. (2010). The Australian Institute of Family Studies' evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms. Australian Journal of Family Law, 24(1), 5-33.
• Kaspiew, R., Gray, M., Weston, R., Moloney, L., Hand, K., Qu, L. and the Family Law Evaluation Team. (2011). The AIFS evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms: A summary. Family Matters, 86, 8-18.
• Moloney, L., Qu, L., Hand, K., De Maio, J., Kaspiew, R., Weston, R., & Gray, M. (2010) Mandatory dispute resolution and the 2006 family law reforms: Use, outcomes, links to other pathways, and the impact of family violence. Journal of Family Studies, 16(3), 192-196.
• Qu, L., & Weston, R. (2010). Parenting dynamics after separation: A follow-up study of parents who separated after the 2006 family law reforms. Canberra: Attorney-General's Department.
• Weston, R., Moloney, L., Kaspiew, R., Gray, M., Hand, K., Qu, L., & the Family Law Evaluation Team. (2010). Overhaul of the family law system in Australia: Its multi-faceted evaluation by the Australian Institute of Family Studies. NCFR Report, Fall.
• Weston, R., Qu, M., Gray, M., Weston, R., Kaspiew, R., Moloney, L., Hand, K., & the Family Law Evaluation Team. (2011). Care-time arrangements after the 2006 reforms: Implications for children and their parents. Family Matters, 86, 19-32.

Presentation(s) (on behalf of the Family Law Evaluation Team)

• Gray, M. (2010, 20-21 July). Improving the system: Identifying risk. 2nd Family Law System Conference, Canberra.
• Gray, M. (2010, 6 August) Evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms: Where to from here? Interactive panel discussion, Newcastle Gateway Project - Family Pathways Network Conference, Newcastle.
• Gray, M. (2010, 13 August). Research perspectives on the 2006 Family Law Act amendments: Where to now? Queensland Law Society and Family Law Practitioners' Association of Queensland 25th Annual Calabro SV Consulting Family Law Residential, Ashmore, Qld.
• Hand, K. (2010, 19 April). Evaluation of the family law reforms: An overview. Faculty of Life and Social Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne.
• Hand, K. (2010, 21 October). Mandatory dispute resolution and the 2006 family law reforms: Use, outcomes, links to other pathways and the impact of family violence. Launch of the Central Queensland Family Law Pathways Network, Rockhampton.
• Hayes, A. (2010, 14 July). Mediating the minefield: Family dispute resolution, its prospects and problems. Launch of research report by T. Brown, What About the Children? Parenting Post-Separation and Divorce, Monash University, Melbourne.
• Hayes, A. (2010, 20-21 July). Perspectives on the family law system: What do we now know and what can we do to respond? 2nd Family Law System Conference, Canberra.
• Kaspiew, R. (2010, 7 July). AIFS evaluation of the family law reforms: Overview of key findings. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Kaspiew, R. (2010, 7 July). Family law: Family violence. Panel session, 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Kaspiew. R. (2010, 20 July). Family violence: Key findings from the evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms. Victoria Legal Aid Professional Development Seminar.
• Kaspiew, R. (2010, 20-21 July). Child protection and family law: Context and insights from the AIFS evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms. 2nd Family Law System Conference, Canberra.
• Kaspiew, R. (2010, 6 August). Access to justice: Reflections from the AIFS evaluation of the family law reforms. Australian Women Lawyers Third National Conference, Brisbane.
• Kaspiew, R. (2010, 4 November). Evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms: Key findings. Hobart and Launceston Family Law Pathways Network Conference.
• Kaspiew, R. (2011, May). Family law in Australia 2011: Recent policy developments and research insights. Cardiff University Law School, Cardiff.
• Moloney, L. (2010, 8 July). Family dispute resolution after the 2006 family law reforms: Usage, nature of disputes, professional and client experiences, and short and medium term outcomes. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies conference, Melbourne.
• Moloney, L. (2010, 16 July). Mandatory dispute resolution and the 2006 family law reforms: Use, outcomes, links to other pathways, and the impact of family violence. NADRAC Research Forum, Brisbane.
• Moloney, L. (2010, 20-21 July). Strategies for working with high conflict families. 2nd Family Law System Conference, Canberra.
• Moloney, L. (2010, 23 November). Family violence: Screening and risk assessment in family support services. APS Family Law Interest Group, Melbourne.
• Moloney, L. (2011, 9 May). Evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms: An overview. Swinburne University of Technology. Melbourne.
• Qu, L., Weston, R., Moloney, L., & Deblaquiere, J. (2010, 9 July). Grandparent-grandchild relationships after parental separation: Findings from the AIFS family law evaluation. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies conference, Melbourne.
• Weston, R. (2010, 7 July). Child support liability, compliance and fairness: Reports of parents who separated after the 2006 family law reforms were introduced. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies conference, Melbourne.
• Weston, R. (2010, 20-21 July). Care arrangements and property matters. 2nd Family Law System Conference, Canberra.

Family Trends and Transitions

The Family Trends and Transitions project analyses and disseminates information on broad trends in patterns of leaving home, couple and family formation, family stability, and family dissolution and re-formation, along with associated values, attitudes and beliefs. As well as providing a better understanding of society's core values, the monitoring and analysis of these trends are important for policy development and for the timely development and design of research projects.

Family-related trends are disseminated through publications and presentations, the online Family Facts and Figures database, media interviews, and the handling of queries from internal and external sources. The updating of the widely used Family Facts and Figures database is an ongoing process. During the reporting period, the Family Facts and Figures section of the website was re-structured to provide better access to the data.

Publication(s)

• Gray, M., de Vaus, D., Qu, L., & Stanton, D. (2011). Divorce and the wellbeing of older Australians. Ageing & Society, 31(3), 475-498.
• Hayes, A., Qu, L., Weston R., & Baxter, J. (2011). Families in Australia 2011: Sticking together in good and tough times. Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Hayes, A., Weston R., & Qu, L. (2011). Relationship pressures on Australian families: Some implications for psychologists. InPsych, February, 8-11.
• Hayes, A., Weston, R., Qu, L., & Gray, M. (2010). Families then and now: 1980-2010. Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Presentation(s)

• De Vaus, D., Gray, M., Qu, L., & Stanton, D. (2010, 7 July). Relationship breakdown and social exclusion: A longitudinal analysis. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Hayes, A., Weston, R., & Qu, L. (2010, 8 July). From form to function: Framing policy to address contemporary choices, changes and challenges. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Hayes, A. (2011, 24 February). Australian families in the 21st century: Recent research insights into family form and functioning. CentaCare Sandhurst 25th Anniversary Conference, "Being and Celebrating Family today", Bendigo, Vic.
• Hayes, A. (2011, 24 Februrary). In celebration of families today. CentaCare Sandhurst 25th Anniversary Conference, "Being and Celebrating Family today", Bendigo, Vic.
• Qu, L., & Weston, R. (2011, 29 April). Demographics of ageing and fertility. Principles of Social Policy course, Australian National University, Canberra.
• Weston, R., Qu, L., & Hayes, A. (2010, 30 November). Family trends: Implications for children. 159th OzChild Annual Meeting, Melbourne.

Family Violence Literature Review

The Institute is undertaking this literature review for the Australian Government Department of Human Services. Its purpose is to inform planning with respect to the development of a portfolio-wide strategy response to family violence.

The document has been designed to give a brief review of the literature relating to key facts and statistics on family violence, and highlight groups who have an increased risk of vulnerability and face additional difficulties in accessing assistance. It reflects research that has been conducted primarily over the last decade and has led to the development of a greater understanding of the importance of early identification of and early intervention with victims and/or perpetrators of family violence. There are two components: Part 1 summarises the research knowledge about family violence, including a discussion of a range of factors that contribute to family violence and the complex relationships between them; and Part 2 looks at responding to family violence, including assessing risk and meeting the needs of victims.

Giving Voice to Victim/Survivors' Knowledge of Sexual Offending

Giving Voice to Victim/Survivors' Knowledge of Sexual Offending was a qualitative project that explored what victim/survivors could tell us about sexual offending. Between March and July 2009, 33 women who had sought the services of a sexual assault support service from across Australia were interviewed. Researchers spoke with victim/survivors about how their assaults occurred and what facilitated the offending.

The research identified a pattern of measured and purposeful tactics used in many kinds of sexual offending, such as the use of surprise and force, concealment and victim-blaming.

The final report was published as an AIFS Research Report in December 2010.

Publication(s)

• Clark, H., & Quadara, A. (2010). Insights into sexual assault perpetration: Giving voice to victim/survivors' knowledge (Research Report No. 18). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children

Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC) is a major study that is following the development of 10,000 children and families from urban and rural areas of all states and territories of Australia, addressing a range of questions about children's development and wellbeing. The study is conducted in a partnership between FaHCSIA, the Institute and the ABS, with advice provided by a consortium of leading researchers. Information is collected on children's physical health and social, cognitive and emotional development, as well as their experiences in significant environments, such as the family, child care, preschool and school, and their broader communities. A major aim of the study is to identify policy opportunities for improving support for children and families and for early intervention and prevention strategies.

Planning for the study commenced in 2002, and in 2004 two cohorts of approximately 5,000 infants aged 0-1 years, and 5,000 children aged 4-5 years, and their parents, were recruited and interviewed. Families have been interviewed every two years thereafter, with information being collected from resident and non-resident parents, teachers, child care providers, and the children themselves. In addition, three between-waves mail surveys were undertaken in 2005, 2007 and 2009.

A major advance for the study was reached when the Australian Government made this study an ongoing project. Funding has been allocated and planning is underway for the next four waves (Waves 5 to 8), taking the study to 2019. The eight LSAC waves will thus provide data on children's development from infancy through to the threshold of adulthood.

Data collection

During 2010-11, Wave 4 data collection was completed, with 8,405 interviews conducted. This represents approximately 83% of the original sample and 96% of the families who participated in Wave 3. Data from this wave are due to be released in August 2011.

The first phase of Wave 4.5 commenced in 2010-11. This between-waves contact with the study families is through an Internet form, rather than a mailed-out paper questionnaire as used in previous between-waves contact. The form focuses on updating and improving contact details for the families. There is also a small set of questions about parents' feelings about various aspects of the study. The second phase of Wave 4.5 will take place in September 2011.

Wave 5 development

Development of the Wave 5 data collection interviews and measures was a major activity for 2010-11, and is now complete. The first phase of data collection will begin in July 2011 and the second phase in March 2012. The methodology changes introduced in Wave 4 will be continued in Wave 5. The interview for the older group of children will include questions on new topics appropriate to their transition into adolescence, such as their transition to secondary school, and their health and wellbeing. As some of the children are now in secondary school, their English teacher will be invited to complete a questionnaire, while those who are still in primary school will have the questionnaire completed by their main classroom teacher. The interview for the younger group of children and their families will be similar to that in previous waves. In addition, the younger group of children will be asked to wear an accelerometer, which measures the amount and intensity of their physical movements.

Life at 5 documentary

The third round of the Life At series - Life At 5 - was screened on ABC TV in February 2011. The Institute has contributed to this series, produced by Screen Australia in conjunction with Heiress Films, which draws upon the methodology and findings of LSAC. Eleven children and their families are being followed over time, with coverage of the children's behaviour and milestones, and the impact of factors such as parents' relationships, finances, work and health. Institute researchers have undertaken interviews with participating parents and assessments of the children, as well as statistical analyses of the LSAC dataset for use in the series.

Dissemination and promotion of LSAC

The LSAC data have been extensively used for many research projects. There are 348 data users, and 903 subscribers to the LSAC emailing list, which provides study updates and information about new publications. The dissemination and promotion of LSAC has continued, with several other papers and reports being published, and papers being presented at national and international forums.

The first LSAC Annual Statistical Report has been completed and is scheduled for release in mid-2011. A draft of the second LSAC Annual Statistical Report was also completed and the report is scheduled for release in 2011-12. The first LSAC research report, Fathering in Australia Among Couple Families With Young Children, was released by FaHCSIA as an Occasional Paper in early 2011. The drafts of three other research reports - on new father figures and fathers living elsewhere, families living in rural and regional areas, and parental social marital status and children's wellbeing - have been completed and are due for release in 2011-12. Two Technical Reports on the National Assessment Plan - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) and My School data linked to the LSAC data file are in progress and are scheduled to be released during 2011-12.

A Facts Sheet based on LSAC data titled Families in Regional, Rural and Remote Australia was also published in March 2011.

During 2010-11, planning began for the 3rd LSAC Research Conference, which for the first time will be held in conjunction with Footprints in Time: The Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children (LSIC). The joint conference will be held in November 2011 in Melbourne.

Publication(s)

• Baxter, J., Gray, M., & Hayes, A. (2011). Families in regional, rural and remote Australia. Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Baxter, J., & Smart, D. (2011). Fathering in Australia among couple families with young children (Occasional Paper No. 37). Canberra: Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.
• Edwards, B., Taylor, M., & Fiorini, M. (2011). Who gets the "gift of time" in Australia? Exploring delayed primary school entry. Australian Review of Public Affairs, 10(1), 41-60.
• Hayes, A. (2010). Design issues. In G. MacNaughton, S. A. Rolfe, I. Siraj-Blatchford (Eds.), Doing early childhood research: International perspectives on theory and practice (2nd ed.; pp. 103-125). Sydney: Allen and Unwin.
• Sanson, A., Hawkins, M. T., Misson, S., & The LSAC Consortium. (2010). The development and validation of Australian indices of child development: Part I. Conceptualisation and development. Child Indicators Research, 3, 275-292.
• Sanson, A., Hawkins, M. T., Misson, S., & The LSAC Consortium. (2010). The development and validation of Australian indices of child development: Part II. Validity support. Child Indicators Research, 3, 293-312.

Other publication(s)

• Growing Up in Australia Newsletter (online) No. 27, Autumn 2010
• Growing Up in Australia Newsletter (online) No. 28, Spring 2010
• Growing Up in Australia Newsletter (online) No. 29, Summer 2011
• Growing Up in Australia Newsletter (online) No. 30, Autumn 2011
• 2011 LSAC calendar
• Growing Up in Australia Newsletter (for study families), December 2010
• Hello From Growing Up in Australia (for study children 6-7 years), December 2010
• Hello From Growing Up in Australia (for study children 10-11 years), December 2010

Presentation(s)

• Baxter, J., & Gray, M. (2010, 8 July). How do dual-employed couple parents manage without childcare? Can it be explained by fathers' involvement in childcare? 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Edwards, B., & Maguire, B. (2010, 7 July). Some findings from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children: The LSAC Annual Statistical Report. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Hayes, A. (2010, 25 November). The changing face of Australian families: Insights from recent longitudinal research and evaluation findings on vulnerability, resilience and family relationship outcomes. CatholicCare Sydney Family Services Directorate Day, Sydney.
• Hayes, A. (2010, 2 December). Modern families but enduring myths?: Implications for research, policy and practice. 6th Australian Family & Community Strengths Conference, University of Newcastle, NSW.
• Redmond, G., Gubhaju, B., Smart, D., & Katz, I. (2010, 8 July). Parents' education and children's outcomes: Is the gradient getting steeper? 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies conference, Melbourne.
• Sanson, A., Smart, D., & Misson, S. (2010, 29 November). Commonalities and differences in predictors of children's physical, cognitive and socio-emotional outcomes: Implications for intervention. 2nd Growing Up in Ireland Research Conference, Dublin, Ireland.
• Soloff, C., & Corey, J. (2010, 1 July). Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children: Sample tracking. EUCCONET International Workshop, "Tracking Sample Members in Longitudinal Studies", University of London, London.
• Soloff, C. (2010, July). Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Six Years On! UK Centre for Longitudinal Studies, London.
• Soloff, C. (2010, July). Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Six Years On! Growing Up in Ireland, Dublin.
• Taylor, M., Edwards, B., & Gray, M. (2010, 7 July). Area level unemployment and children's development in New South Wales. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies conference, Melbourne.

Indigenous Justice Programs Evaluation: Diversion Programs

In partnership with the Australian Institute of Criminology, AIFS will evaluate four Indigenous youth criminal justice prevention, early intervention and diversion programs from different parts of Australia. The four programs are:

• Aggression Replacement Training (Qld) - a 10-week program designed to teach young people social skills, anger management techniques and moral reasoning to reduce their risk of committing violent offences;
• Woorabinda Early Intervention Coordination Panel Service (Qld) - a program that works directly with young people who are at risk of becoming entrenched in a pattern of offending, and their families, to support and empower them to deal with issues as they arise;
• Aboriginal Power Cup (SA) - a program that focuses on engaging young people in education, promotes healthy lifestyle choices and develops teamwork, leadership and life skills through a school-based curriculum that revolves around sport; and
• Tiwi Islands Youth Diversion and Development Unit (NT) - offering a wide range of programs linked to identified community concerns and initiatives, including youth diversion and development programs, community mediation and counselling services.

The aim of the evaluation is to explore the effectiveness of the programs in diverting Indigenous youth from entering or re-entering the Australian criminal justice system. Specifically, the evaluation will consider the ways in which individual programs are operating and the degree to which they are successful in meeting their stated aims. It will also identify critical "success" factors (common to all programs) for effectively preventing/diverting Indigenous youth away from the criminal justice system.

The evaluation will be conducted over two years. Three key phases of research will be undertaken within this timeframe. These phases are: (a) project development and design; (b) data collection; and (c) analysis and reporting.

Labour Market Issues for Families

This is an ongoing project that encompasses research on a range of work-family related topics. Recent projects include analyses of employment transitions of lone and couple mothers, undertaken to explore whether barriers to job entry or job retention are greater for lone rather than couple mothers. This was published as an AIFS Research Paper and presented at two conferences in 2010-11, and is to be published in the Australian Journal of Labour Economics. Related work on maternal employment was undertaken for FaHCSIA (see the Trends in Workforce Decisions of Women With Children research project). Also with regard to maternal employment, the output from a 2009-10 research project on child support and mothers' labour supply was published as an AIFS Research Paper.

Another focus is that of family joblessness and child wellbeing. This work was presented in 2010-11 and will be published in 2011-12. (See also the Street Stories project and Neighbourhoods, Economic Disadvantage and Child Wellbeing project for related work.)

Projects with an international focus include a review of work-family policies implemented overseas. This review will be published as an AIFS Research Paper. Contributions to the international work-family area have also been made through involvement in the International Network on Leave Policies and Research, through publication and presentation of Australian parental leave information. Through analyses of LSAC, we have also participated in a multi-country study of early maternal employment and child outcomes that is to be published as an OECD working paper.

Research on the intersection of work and family was undertaken as part of the LSAC research project on fathering in Australia, which was released in March 2011. This line of research is continuing to explore how particular employment arrangements are associated with differences in fathering. Other continuing research includes an examination of issues of labour market participation of parents with young children and the arrangements that are made for caring for children.

Publication(s)

• Alexander, M., Whitehouse, G., & Brennan, D. (2010). Australia: Country note. In P. Moss (Ed.), International review of leave policies and related research 2010 (Employment Relations Research Series No. 115). London: UK Department for Business, Innovation & Skills.
• Baxter, J., & Renda, J. (2011). Lone and couple mothers in the Australian labour market: Exploring differences in employment transitions (Research Paper No. 48). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Taylor, M., & Gray, M. (2010). The impact of child support payments on the labour supply decisions of resident mothers. (Research Paper No. 47). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Presentation(s)

• Alexander M. (2010, 29 September). An antipodean view of work & family: Recent research and policy developments. Fathers, Parental Leave and Family-Friendly Work Arrangements: Policy Developments and Research in Australia and Europe Seminar, London.
• Alexander M. (2010, 8 October). Recent Australian parental leave policy developments. International Network on Leave Policies and Research, Bologna.
• Alexander M. (2010, 14 October). An antipodean view of work & family: Recent research developments. Seminar, University of Barcelona, Barcelona.
• Baxter, J., (2010, 2 December). Mothers and fathers as co-parents: Does paid work get in the way? 15th Biennial Australian Population Association Conference, Surfers Paradise, Qld.
• Baxter, J., & Gray, M., (2010, 8 July). How do dual-employed couple parents manage without childcare? Can it be explained by fathers' involvement in childcare? 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Baxter, J., & Renda, J., (2010, 8 July). Lone and couple mothers in the Australian labour market: Exploring differences in employment transitions. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Baxter, J., & Smart, D. (2011, 2 March). Fathering in Australia. FaHCSIA Social Policy Research Workshop, Canberra ACT.
• Gray, M., & Baxter, J. (2011, 1 February). Family joblessness, child wellbeing and labour market and income support policies. Advancing Child and Family Policy Through Research Conference, Canberra ACT.
• Renda, J., & Baxter, J. (2010, 1-4 December). Lone and couple mothers in the Australian labour market: Using HILDA calendar data to examine monthly employment transitions. ACSPRI Social Science Methodology Conference, Sydney.

National Homelessness Research Project: The Influences of Unstable Housing on Children's Wellbeing and Development

Unstable housing is one of the key risk factors for homelessness. Little is known in Australia about the impact of unstable housing (such as high rates of residential mobility, unstable housing tenure and housing stress) on children's cognitive development and learning, health and social-emotional functioning. Moreover, there has been limited international research that is longitudinal and nationally representative.

This research project will provide estimates of the impact of unstable housing on children's development using LSAC data. In addition, it will highlight the role that parental relationship breakdown has on unstable housing and the consequences for the development of children in these households.

This project commenced in August 2010. To date, significant progress has been made in the construction of a research dataset. A research note on definitions of homelessness and the enumeration of homeless families using survey data was presented to FaHCSIA. Statistical modelling of the effect of unstable housing on child outcomes was completed, and a final draft report was submitted in June 2011.

National Survey of Children and Young People in Out-of-Home Care: Scoping Study

The National Standards for Out-of-Home Care were agreed by state and territory Community and Disability Services Ministers in December 2010, and in April 2011 a set of measures for these standards was also agreed upon. Key to monitoring progress against the National Standards is capturing the views of children and young people in out-of-home care about the differences the National Standards are making in their lives.

AIFS has been commissioned by FaHCSIA to undertake a scoping study for a national survey of children and young people in out-of-home care. The survey is intended to provide quantitative and qualitative data that supplement and enrich administrative data by adding information about children's and young people's subjective experiences of the out-of-home care system.

The scoping study will review existing surveys and data collection methods, and examine options for the survey methodology - covering mode of collection methodology, sampling strategy, sample size, provider load, and interface with existing surveys.

The project commenced on 20 June, and initial work focused on making contact with key stakeholders and commencing a round of consultations.

Negotiating the Life Course

Negotiating the Life Course is a longitudinal survey undertaken by the Australian Demographic and Social Research Institute and the School of Social Science, University of Queensland. AIFS also contributes through the involvement of a senior research staff member as Partner Investigator to the project.

The study tracks the changing life courses and decision-making processes of Australian men and women as families and society move from male breadwinner orientation towards higher levels of gender equity.

AIFS is using the Negotiating the Life Course data to examine women's labour market participation by life-cycle stage across different birth cohorts.

Neighbourhoods, Economic Disadvantage and Child Wellbeing

The Neighbourhood Economic Disadvantage and Child Wellbeing project aims to: provide evidence about the impact of neighbourhoods on children and their parents; explore the impact of neighbourhood disadvantage on children; and gain insight into risk and protective factors. Data from LSAC are used in this analysis.

Further research will explore how parental factors such as mental health and parenting behaviour mediate the effects of neighbourhood on children's social and emotional outcomes. In addition, the Benevolent Society contracted the Institute to undertake research on the impact of area-level unemployment on children's development in New South Wales. This project also used LSAC data.

A final report, Unemployment and the Wellbeing of Children Aged 5-10 Years, has been published.

Publication(s)

• Taylor, M., Edwards, B., & Gray, M. (2010). Unemployment and the wellbeing of children aged 5-10 years: Report to the Benevolent Society (PDF 1.2 MB) (Background Paper). Paddington, NSW: Benevolent Society. Retrieved from <www.bensoc.org.au/uploads/documents/AIFS-report-unemployment-and-the-wellbeing-of-children-aged-5-to-10-yrs.pdf>.

New Income Management Evaluation Framework and Baseline Data Collection Project

This project is the first phase of a broader evaluation of a new model of the Income Management Scheme in the Northern Territory.

The New Income Management Evaluation Framework and Baseline Data Collection Project is being undertaken with the Social Policy Research Centre at the University of New South Wales and the Australian National University. SPRC is the lead agency in the consortium. The project has been commissioned by FaHCSIA.

The project has three key parts:

• development of the evaluation framework;
• collection of early implementation data; and
• analyses of baseline administrative data.

The framework was developed after consultation with community and government stakeholders. To assist with input for the framework, FaHCSIA convened a reference group of key stakeholders, including a range of community and government stakeholders. Following these consultations, the framework was developed by the consortium using a review of the international literature and the joint expertise of the research consortium. The framework was released in February 2011.

AIFS is developing survey instruments and interview schedules for the collection of primary baseline data and will also be responsible for conducting the fieldwork for the qualitative interviews, and contributing to the analysis and write-up of both the survey and interview data.

A New Legal Frontier? The Role of Social Networking Services and Mobile Phone Technology in Facilitating Sexual Violence

This partnership project explores the use of social networking services (e.g., Facebook, MySpace, chat rooms) and mobile phone technology (e.g., SMS messaging, filming, "sexting") in the facilitation of sexual violence.

The overall goal of this project is to assist in the reduction of sexual violence experienced by young people in Australia and to support the legal system's ability to legislate, investigate and prosecute sexual violence that occurs through or is aided by social networking services. It focuses on the experiences of young people (16-20 years) to examine how such technologies are used to facilitate sexual violence and identify the challenges for prevention in this still-emerging social environment.

The proposed methodology is predominantly qualitative and will involve interviews with people who have experienced technology-facilitated sexual assault, and with key informants in sexual assault services, police, prosecution, defence and the judiciary. Emerging findings and their implications for prevention will be communicated to key stakeholders, including young people, through several forums and workshops.

As at 30 June, a reference group meeting and roundtable have been held. The project methodology has been developed, with approval granted by the AIFS Human Research Ethics Committee, and is awaiting approval from the Victoria Police ethics committee.

Northern Territory Emergency Response: Outcome Evaluation of "Supporting Families"

The aim of this project is to assess outcomes relating to the improvement of the safety, health and wellbeing of children by examining the Supporting Families measures under the Northern Territory Emergency Response (NTER) and the Closing the Gap in the Northern Territory National Partnership Agreement. AIFS will undertake a desktop analysis of existing NTER evaluation documents, survey materials, administrative data and other materials to provide a succinct analysis of actions that have contributed to changes in Supporting Families (including child protection) outcomes in the NTER communities. The result will be a chapter for incorporation in the independent NTER evaluation synthesis report.

In the 2010-11 financial year, AIFS commenced the project and began work on a project plan that will inform tasks to be undertaken in 2011-12.

Parents and Children Articles: Raising Children Network

The Raising Children Network is an Australian parenting website that provides information to parents to help with the day-to-day decisions of raising children, and to look after parents' own needs. RCN collaborates with Australian and international experts to ensure that the information presented on the website is valid and reliable.

The Institute was asked to write three new articles for the RCN website that focus on teenagers: "Dads and Teenagers"; "Mums and Teenagers"; and "Looking After Yourself". Researchers at the Institute conducted literature searches on the topics, drafted articles and responded to feedback.

Past Adoption Experiences: National Research Study on Service Responses

This new research project builds on an earlier project, completed in April 2010, which involved a review of existing research literature about past adoption practices in Australia. The report was commissioned by FaHCSIA to understand the quality of research available about past adoption practices (relating to the period of "closed adoption"), and to assess the adequacy of research as an evidence base for policy and service development.

On 4 June 2010, the Community and Disability Services Ministers' Conference announced that ministers had agreed to a joint national research study into past adoption experiences, to be conducted by AIFS. The aims of the project are to:

• examine experiences of past adoption, as they relate to the current support and service needs of affected individuals;
• consider the extent to which affected individuals have sought support and services and the types of support and services that have been sought; and
• present information from the study that could be used in the development of best practice models or practice guidelines for the delivery of supports and services for individuals affected by their adoption experiences.

Planning and the development of the research design began in early 2011, with the establishment of the Technical and Stakeholder Advisory Groups. Data collection is anticipated to start in August 2011, with the final report to be submitted in June 2012.

Publication(s)

• Higgins, D. (2011). Unfit mothers … Unjust practices: Key issues from Australian research on the impact of past adoption practices. Family Matters, 87, 56-68.

Presentation(s)

• Higgins, D. (2010). Key issues from Australian research on the impact of past adoption practices. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.

Pathways of Care: The Longitudinal Study of Children and Young People in Out-of-Home Care

Pathways of Care: The Longitudinal Study of Children and Young People in Out-of-Home Care, is being conducted by NSW Community Services, with advice provided by the Institute, among others. All children aged 0-17 years entering out-of-home care in New South Wales for the first time by way of final Children's Court orders over a 12-month recruitment period will be eligible for inclusion in the study. The study commenced progressive data collection in May 2011, and it is anticipated that four annual waves of data will be collected. Data will be collected from carers, caseworkers, the children themselves and possibly also teachers, and will also be sourced from the administrative systems of NSW Community Services and other agencies.

Stage 1 of the study was completed in December 2010. During Stage 1, the Institute was contracted to provide advice on the study design, data collection processes and the selection of measures for the first wave of data collection. In addition, the Institute prepared a project plan for Stage 2 of the study, which involves analysis of the study data and the production of annual reports for each of the four waves of the study. AIFS also prepared a draft policy and procedures manual covering all aspects of the data analysis that will be undertaken.

Stage 2 commenced in January 2011, with the main deliverables being the development of relevant study instruments for future waves, the production of a report on data quality, based on the first 100 cases, and annual analytic reports for the first three waves. The Institute's first deliverable for Stage 2 was draft instruments for carers of children aged 3 years and over, and for the children and young people themselves (children aged 8-17 years).

Protecting Australia's Children Research Audit (1995-2010)

The Protecting Australia's Children Research Audit project identified and described Australian research projects (including program evaluations) undertaken during the 1995-2010 period on topics relating to the protection of children. The scope of the audit aligned with the six supporting outcomes of the National Framework for Protecting Australia's Children 2009-20, ranging from universal preventative initiatives through to statutory child protection and out-of-home care.

A literature review was undertaken to identify relevant research. Researchers were also provided with an opportunity to provide details of projects (including projects not yet completed) for inclusion in the audit. A total of 1,359 projects that met the audit criteria were identified. A report outlining the findings of the audit has been produced.

In addition to the audit report, an online database (the Protecting Australia's Children Research and Evaluation Register) was developed. This online resource will be freely available via the National Child Protection Clearinghouse and is targeted towards researchers, policy-makers and practitioners working in fields relating to the protection of children. It is expected that this database will provide these key stakeholders with the opportunity to (a) build upon the strengths of existing research; and (b) fill critical knowledge gaps. The database will have the capacity to incorporate new research projects, thereby making it a dynamic resource that remains relevant in the long term.

Publication(s)

• McDonald, M., Higgins, D., valentine, k., & Lamont, A. (2011). Protecting Australia's Children research audit (1995-2010). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Research and Evaluation Collaboration: Berry Street

This project provided support to Berry Street (the largest independent child and family welfare organisation in Victoria) regarding research and evaluation that is relevant to their family support programs and services. An AIFS senior research officer with expertise in evaluation was seconded to Berry Street as an internal consultant. AIFS undertook a range of tasks forming a 10-month work plan, including activities such as:

• assisting with the development of an agency-wide monitoring and evaluation framework, and leading its implementation;
• evaluating services and supporting staff to evaluate their own services; and
• assisting with the development and implementation of an agency-wide client participation framework.

The project drew upon a range of evaluation resources that were developed by the Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse. It has been a valuable partnership in linking the translation of research to practice, and vice versa.

Presentation(s)

• Parker, R. (2011, April). Collaborating on evaluation in a service environment. Berry Street, Richmond, Vic.
• Parker, R., McDonald, M., & Higgins. J. (2010, 3 August). Challenges in evaluating child and family welfare services. Association of Children's Welfare Agencies Conference, Sydney.
• Parker, R. (2010, 30 November). Walking the talk: Evaluation in a service environment. 6th National Family and Community Strengths Conference, Newcastle, NSW.

Research and Evaluation Collaboration: Interrelate Family Centres

This project provides support to Interrelate Family Centres regarding research and evaluation that is relevant to their family support programs and services. In 2009-10, an AIFS senior research officer with expertise in evaluation was seconded to Interrelate Family Centres as an internal consultant for one day per week. AIFS undertook a range of tasks, forming a 12-month work plan, including activities such as:

• reviewing existing program aims and objectives to inform evaluation plans;
• providing advice and strategies to establish a research and evaluation culture;
• collaborating with Interrelate staff on the preparation of evaluation instruments and protocols; and
• training and working with staff to undertake tasks related to program evaluation.

The project draws upon a range of evaluation resources that have been developed by the Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse, and is a valuable partnership in linking the translation of research to practice, and vice versa. This consultancy has been re-funded to continue through to June 2014.

Presentation(s)

• Parker, R. (2010, September). Understanding partial agreements. Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners workshop, Interrelate Staff Conference, Newcastle, NSW.

Rural and Regional Families: The Impact of Drought and Economic and Social Change

In August 2007, the Institute commenced a major study into the impact of drought and economic and social change on the wellbeing of families and communities in regional and rural Australia, an issue on which there has been very little large-scale work. Understanding the impact of drought on families and communities is likely to become increasingly important if climate change predictions are correct - that much of Australia will experience more frequent and severe droughts in the future.

The goal of the project is to provide the Australian Government and general community with current information and expert analysis about the economic and social impacts of drought on families in regional and rural Australia. It addresses the effect of drought on families' financial situations, standards of living, relationships, wellbeing, migration patterns, service availability, social capital and community cohesion.

The study involved interviews with about 8,000 people living in rural and regional areas, including more than 1,300 farmers, 1,000 others employed in agricultural industries, 3,000 employed in non-agricultural industries, and more than 2,500 people who were not employed. It explored the extent to which drought affects communities beyond farmers and those directly employed in agriculture or related industries.

The research resulting from this project was used extensively by the Productivity Commission in its report on Drought Support Policy. It was also used in the report of the Expert Panel on the Social Impacts of Drought. Analyses of data from the survey are continuing.

Presentations

• Edwards, B., Gray, M., Baxter, J., & Hunter, B. (2010, 8 July). The tyranny of distance? Carers in regional and remote Australia. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.

Rural and Remote Carers in Australia

The Institute was contracted by Carers Australia to undertake research on carers living in rural and remote areas of Australia. The research helped to address the gap in our understanding about this group and provided evidence for decisions about policies and practice to better meet the needs of carers in rural Australia. The report focused on the geography of caring, the impact of living in rural and remote areas, and the impact of drought on carers - whether drought widens social inequalities and particularly affects carers, who may have fewer financial resources than other groups. The final report was launched during Carers Week in September 2009, and the Institute continues to disseminate the study findings.

Presentation(s)

• Edwards, B., Gray, M., Baxter, J., & Hunter, B. (2010, 8 July). The tyranny of distance? Carers in regional and remote Australia. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.

Street Stories: The Life around Here Community Study and Documentary

The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations commissioned the Institute to undertake the Street Stories project, with the aims of: developing a picture of the lives of families living in three areas identified as experiencing economic and social disadvantage; exploring how families living in these areas interact with their community; and examining the impact of where they live on their engagement with the labour market.

The project involved a research study with families living within the three areas, and a documentary with other selected families. Additional funding was provided by DEEWR to allow for a researcher to visit the families who participated in the documentary around eight months after being filmed to talk about what had happened in their lives since. This information was then summarised and added to the closing credits of the documentary.

By adding to the understanding of factors leading to concentrations of joblessness and other forms of disadvantage, the research report and documentary produced as part of the Street Stories project will assist with the development of programs that effectively address area-based disadvantage, such as the Family-Centred Employment Project.

Stronger Families in Australia Study Extension: SFIA-II

The Institute has been funded to extend the Stronger Families in Australia (SFIA) study. The original SFIA study, completed in 2008-09, was a central component of the National Evaluation of the Stronger Families and Communities Strategy - an area-based intervention aimed at improving outcomes for young children and their families living in disadvantaged communities in Australia. SFIA was designed to evaluate the Communities for Children (CfC) initiative and was conducted in partnership with the Social Policy Research Centre, University of New South Wales. It entailed a three-wave longitudinal study of 2,202 children (aged about 2 years old in 2006) and families living in 10 sites that have a CfC program ("CfC sites") and five non-CfC sites that were otherwise comparable to the CfC sites. The results of this study suggested that the CfC initiative had small but positive effects on children, families and communities - effects that may become more pronounced over time. The CfC initiative is now a major component of the new Family Support Program.

The new study will entail an additional two waves of telephone interviews with the original SFIA sample (the children are about 7 years old in 2011), and two waves of telephone interviews to evaluate the effectiveness of CfC Plus, to be conducted in 2011 and 2012. The CfC Plus initiative builds on the CfC approach but has a stronger focus on child protection services. It also encompasses services that primarily target adults in order to address known parental risk factors, including mental health problems, family violence, housing difficulties and substance abuse. For example, children will be supported as part of an integrated treatment plan for adults with mental illness or substance abuse histories.

Seven new sites that have been selected for the CfC Plus program ("CfC Plus sites") will be a part of this second cohort, as well as four contrast or "non-CfC Plus sites", which are otherwise comparable to the CfC Plus sites. There is a target of 1,840 interviews for Wave 1 for this cohort, with approximately half involving 2-year-olds and the other half involving 7-year-olds, thus enabling comparisons to be made between children of the same ages in both the CfC and CfC Plus cohorts.

Publications

• Edwards, B., Gray, M., Wise, S., Hayes, A., Katz, I., Muir, K., & Patulny, R. (2011). Early impacts of Communities for Children on children and families: Findings from a quasi-experimental, cohort study. Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Advance online publication. doi:10.1136/jech.2010.118133

Time Use in Families

The Time Use in Families project was initiated in 2007 to better understand the ways in which family members spend their time, along with the contribution of time use to personal wellbeing. The project includes analyses of interactions between work and family.

Several research streams were aligned to this project, including analysis of parental time with children, infant time use, adult time use, and perceptions about their experiences of time. The project leverages existing data sources, including data from LSAC and ABS time use data. In 2010-11, a significant research project related to this topic involved the analysis of fathering in Australia, using LSAC data (see entry under Growing Up in Australia).

Research in this area will be reported in the Labour Market Issues for Families project in future years.

Publication(s)

• Baxter, J. (2010). Flexible work hours and other job factors in parental time with children. Social Indicators Research, 101(2), 239-242.

Trends in Workforce Decisions of Women With Children

The aim of this project was to provide information about mothers' employment patterns, using the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, with a focus on the characteristics of mothers who were not employed. The analyses explored how employment patterns varied for mothers with different characteristics, with a view to understanding the degree to which barriers such as health and low levels of education related to the non-employment of mothers. The final report has been submitted to FaHCSIA and this project is now complete.

Women in Custody and Sexual Assault Survival

The purpose of this project is to provide advice to Corrective Services NSW on the available research and practice evidence about how the effects of sexual victimisation relate to subsequent engagement in criminal behaviours. This includes a consideration of the constellation of social, economic and health issues faced by women in the criminal justice system as they relate to sexual victimisation. These include barriers to treatment success, such as: the low level of educational attainment, unemployment, substance addiction, and being the primary caregivers to dependent children.

The review of the literature will focus on the complex needs of incarcerated women, including specific issues in relation to Aboriginal women in prison. It will also explore transitional support to effect positive outcomes upon release and re-entry to the community, which is an important factor in reducing recidivism.

The project will aim to identify broad directions that can be taken to address sexual victimisation, while identifying the limitations to the provision of a therapeutic environment in the correctional setting.

Presentations

• Stathopoulos, M., & Quadara, A. (2011, 27 February). Emerging trends arising from the scoping review. NSW Women's Advisory Council, Sydney.
• Stathopoulos, M., & Quadara, A. (2011, 24 June). Women as victims: Women as offenders. Supporting women with trauma histories beyond prison. Trauma Informed Care and Practice Meeting the Challenge Conference, Sydney.

Report on performance - Clearinghouse activities

The Institute's clearinghouses identify, gather, synthesise and publish research and resources within a specialist field. By linking research findings into policy and practice, the clearinghouses provide evidence to support the decisions and practices of policy-makers and service providers. The Institute's clearinghouses deploy a wide range of communication tools for target stakeholders - policy-makers and service providers - and the media, researchers, students, peak bodies and individuals in the community.

In 2010-11, the Institute continued its management of four national clearinghouses:

• Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault (ACSSA);
• Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse (AFRC);
• Communities and Families Clearinghouse Australia (CAFCA); and
• National Child Protection Clearinghouse (NCPC).

In partnership with the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (the lead agency), the Institute also contributes to the Closing the Gap Clearinghouse.

Clearinghouse publications

The AIFS clearinghouses produce a wide range of publications to communicate knowledge, particularly to service providers and policy-makers. Publications vary in format from substantial, in-depth research papers through to brief newsletters. Publications include:

• Issues papers - in-depth research papers that focus on relevant policy, practice and research topics;
• Briefings - short papers that synthesise or translate key messages from research or practice and summarise issues;
• Resource Sheets - concise summaries that provide summaries of, and up-to-date facts and statistics about, a specific issue;
• newsletters - including literature highlights, news in brief, program and agency spotlights, updates and summaries of research and practice, and current and emerging topics in the field; and
• Promising Practice Profiles (PPPs) - describing innovative programs and practices.

Clearinghouse knowledge exchange

The clearinghouses transfer and exchange knowledge between researchers, policy-makers and practitioners through:

• presentations at conferences, seminars and forums;
• representation on state-based and national advisory groups and committees;
• media interviews and articles undertaken in response to clearinghouse publications and activities;
• information helpdesk service provided by experienced reference librarians from the AIFS Library or researchers;
• electronic resources in the AIFS Library collection, which are available via clearinghouse websites; and
• print resources available via the AIFS Library interlibrary loan system to library members.

Clearinghouse online resources

Online media are used extensively by the AIFS clearinghouses as effective and efficient means of disseminating clearinghouse knowledge and information to generalist and specialist audiences, including:

• clearinghouse websites - access to clearinghouse publications and newsletters; Promising Practice Profiles; new literature on research, policy and practice; annotated bibliographies; information on events, conferences and training; links to Australian and international organisations; and access to the clearinghouse library collections;
• electronic alerts - provide up-to-date information about sector news and events, new publications, notices about research participation, professional development opportunities: ACSSA-alert; AFRC-alert; CAFCA-alert; and NCPC-alert;
• childprotect - a moderated NCPC discussion list that facilitates the exchange of information between professionals; and
• bibliographic resources - accessible via ACSSA, AFRC and NCPC websites, and describing journal articles; conference papers; books and chapters; government and research reports; discussion, working and unpublished papers; statistical documents; and theses.

Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault

The Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault (ACSSA) is the national centre for the collection and dissemination of current information and research on sexual assault. The aim of the clearinghouse is to assist service providers, policy-makers and others working in the field to improve responses to and ultimately reduce the incidence of sexual assault.

The clearinghouse provides evidence about all forms of sexual assault, with a focus on the sexual assault of women and girls over 15 years of age and adult survivors of child sexual abuse.

The main functions of the centre are to: facilitate access to national policy-relevant data; establish a comprehensive evidence base and provide information and advice on research and best practice approaches for interventions in response to sexual assault; stimulate debate among policy-makers, academics and service providers about the most effective strategies to prevent, respond to and reduce the incidence of sexual assault; and raise awareness of sexual assault and its impact on the Australian community.

Notes: ^a The ACSSA print publication mail list was refreshed in the final quarter of 2009-10 by removing duplicate records, emphasising electronic communication rather than printed copies, and using centralised distribution points within key organisations, resulting in a lower number of subscribers in 2010-11. ^b Items include books, reports, articles, conference papers and audiovisual material.

Publications

ACSSA Aware

• ACSSA Aware No. 24 (2010)
• ACSSA Aware No. 25 (2010)
• ACSSA Aware No. 26 (2011)

ACCSA Wrap

• Allimant, A., & Ostapiej-Piatkowski, B. (2011). Supporting women from CALD backgrounds who are victim/survivors of sexual violence: Challenges and opportunities for practitioners (ACSSA Wrap No. 9). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Parkinson, D. (2010). Supporting victims through the legal process: The role of sexual assault service providers (ACSSA Wrap No. 8). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Other publications

• Clark, H. (2010). What is the justice system willing to offer? Understanding sexual assault victim/survivors' criminal justice needs. Family Matters, 85, 28-37.

Presentations

• Clark, H. (2010, 9 July). Women's understandings of sexual offending and re-victimisation. 11th Australian Institute of Families Conference, Melbourne.
• Clark, H. (2011, 30 September). Victim/survivors' knowledge of sexual offending and re-victimisation. 23rd Annual Australia and New Zealand Society of Criminology (ANZSOC) Conference, Cross-Border Domestic and Transnational Crime: Risks and Responses, Alice Springs, NT.
• Clark, H. (2010, 19 November). Interagency collaboration and sexual assault. Sexual Assault Service Providers annual general meeting, Launceston, Tasmania.
• Quadara, A. (2010, 9 July). The role of community and social level factors in women's experiences of sexual re-victimisation. 11th Australian Institute of Families Conference, Melbourne.
• Quadara, A. (2010, 26 August). Where to now? Developing the evidence base for sexual assault prevention. Education Centre Against Violence NSW Health Forum, Sydney.
• Quadara, A. (2010, 31 August). Gaps in the current evidence base and current and future directions to address them. CASA House Research Forum, Melbourne.
• Quadara, A. (2010, 19 November). Gaps, priorities, and next steps: Building the sexual assault evidence base. Women's Health Forum, Gosford, NSW.
• Quadara, A. (2010, 23 November). Risk, re-victimisation and sexual assault: Thinking through "vulnerability". SARC-CHIRI Symposium, Vulnerable Adults and Sexual Assault, Perth.
• Quadara, A. (2011, 17 March). Victim-centred crisis care. Domestic Violence Interagency Collaboration Forum, Melbourne.
• Quadara, A. (2011, 14 April). Responding to young people's disclosures of sexual abuse and sexual assault: Key issues. Practice Forum, Melbourne.
• Quadara, A. (2011, 20 April). Victim/survivors' insights into sexual offending. WIRES Information Seminar, Melbourne.
• Quadara, A. (2011, 27 April). Mother. Survivor. Client: Complex needs and complex clients. Keynote presentation, Sexual Assault Support Service and Australian Association of Social Workers conference, The Ghosts of Trauma Past: Sexual Abuse, Family Violence and Child Protection, Hobart.
• Quadara, A. (2011, 28 April). Leaps and bounds: Developments in the sexual assault field. 25 Years of Sexual Assault Support Service, Hobart.
• Quadara, A. (2011, 17 May). Victim/survivors's insights into sexual offending. Research briefing, WA Department of Public Prosecutions, Perth.
• Stathopoulos, M., & Quadara, A. (2011, 24 June). Complex trauma, complex needs, complex clients: Supporting women with sexual abuse histories within - and beyond - the correctional system. Trauma-Informed Care and Practice Conference, Sydney.

Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse

The Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse aims to improve the wellbeing of families and children by supporting practitioners, service providers and policy-makers in the development and delivery of family relationship programs and services. The AFRC has a particular focus on prevention and early intervention responses to family relationship issues.

Guided by an external reference group, the clearinghouse contributes to the goals of the Australian Government's Family Support Program by collecting and disseminating the latest relevant research and practice via publications and a website. The clearinghouse also functions as a resource and point of contact for providers of family relationship and support services. Policy-makers and members of the research and broader communities benefit from access to the latest developments in practice- and policy-related research through the AFRC website and publications.

Publication(s)

Family Relationships Quarterly

• Family Relationships Quarterly No. 17 (September 2010) - special edition on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families
• Family Relationships Quarterly No. 18 (March 2011)

AFRC Briefing

• Armstrong, S. (2010). Enhancing access to family dispute resolution for families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds (AFRC Briefing No. 18). Melbourne: Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse.
• Caruana, C., & McDonald, M. (2011). Social inclusion in the family support sector (AFRC Briefing No. 19). Melbourne: Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse.
• Parker, R., & Hunter, C. (2011). Supporting couples across the transition to parenthood (AFRC Briefing No. 20). Melbourne: Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse.
• Robinson, E., & Moloney, L. (2010). Family violence: Towards a holistic approach to screening and risk assessment in family support services (AFRC Briefing No. 17). Melbourne: Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse.

AFRC Issues

• Parker, R. (2010). Evaluation in family support services: Part A. Evaluation and innovation (AFRC Issues No. 6A). Melbourne: Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse.
• Parker, R. (2010). Evaluation in family support services: Part B: Broader issues. Evidence-based practice, service-based evaluation, and ethics in evaluation (AFRC Issues No. 6B). Melbourne: Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse.
• Parker, R. (2010). Evaluation in family support services: Part C: Basic principles in preparing for evaluation (AFRC Issues No. 6C). Melbourne: Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse.
• Parker, R. (2010). Evaluation in family support services: Part D: Getting started in evaluation. The devil is in the detail (AFRC Issues No. 6D). Melbourne: Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse.
• Parker, R. (2010). Evaluation in family support services: Part E: Evaluation. Dissemination and beyond (AFRC Issues No. 6E). Melbourne: Australian Family Relationships Clearinghouse.

Other

• Robinson, E. (2011). Housing stress and the mental health of families. Parity, 24(3), 18-19.

Presentation(s)

• Caruana, C. (2010, July). Partnerships in healing: An effective pathway to health and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Poster, Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC) National Conference, Alice Springs, NT.
• Caruana, C. (2010, November). Partnerships in healing: An effective pathway to health and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Family Relationship Services Australia Conference, Melbourne.
• Parker, R. (2010, September). Understanding partial agreements. Workshop, Interrelate Staff Conference, Newcastle, NSW.
• Parker, R. (2010, November). Walking the talk: Evaluation in a service environment. 6th Australian Family and Community Strengths Conference, Newcastle, NSW.
• Parker, R. (2011, April). Service-based evaluation in a domestic violence setting. Zena Women's Service, Geelong, Vic.
• Parker, R., McDonald, M., & Higgins, J. (2010, August). Challenges in evaluating child and family welfare services. Association of Children's Welfare Agencies Conference, Sydney.
• Robinson, E. (2010, September). What works with adolescents? Family connections and involvement in interventions. Department of Human Services Finding Solutions Conference, Melbourne.
• Robinson, E. (2010, November). Family violence: Towards a holistic approach to screening and risk assessment in family support services. Family Relationship Services Australia Conference, Melbourne.
• Robinson, E. (2010, November). Linking research to practice (and back again…). 6th Australian Family and Community Strengths Conference, Newcastle, NSW.
• Robinson, E. (2010, November). What factors in the social environment influence healthy social and emotional development? Panel, ARACY Middle Years Symposium, Canberra.
• Robinson, E. (2011, March). Clearinghouses: What are they? What role do they play? How do they support practitioners? Broadmeadows Family Relationship Services Reference Group Meeting, Broadmeadows, Victoria.
• Robinson, E. (2011, May). Adolescents and their families. Department of Human Services, Family Services Forum, Bendigo, Victoria.
• Robinson, E., & Power, L. (2010, July). What works with adolescents? Family connections and involvements in interventions. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Smart, D. (2010, August). Young Australians' perceptions of life, relationships, marriage and parenthood. Workshop, Victorian Marriage and Relationship Educators' State Conference, Melbourne.

Closing the Gap Clearinghouse

The Closing the Gap Clearinghouse is delivered through a collaboration with the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the lead agency. The aim of the clearinghouse is to support policy-makers and service providers by delivering a central online source of evidence-based resources on programs, strategies and activities that work to overcome disadvantage for Indigenous Australians. The principal stakeholders are Commonwealth, State and Territory departments with responsibility for implementing actions under the Closing the Gap agenda. Clearinghouse resources will also be helpful to Indigenous communities, academic researchers, other research clearinghouses and the general public.

The Closing the Gap Clearinghouse provides a website hosted by the AIHW (with content contributions from AIFS), an electronic newsletter, online collections of research, literature and other information resources, and an online register for research and evaluations in progress or completed (within the last three years). In addition, the clearinghouse publishes Resource Sheets, Issues Papers and the annual Key Learnings and Gaps in the Evidence Paper.

The clearinghouse also undertakes outreach and networking and provides advice, the responsibility for which is shared between the AIHW and AIFS.

Communities and Families Clearinghouse Australia

The Communities and Families Clearinghouse Australia is funded by FaHCSIA to act as an information advisory unit focused on children and families living in disadvantaged communities. The primary aim of CAFCA is to facilitate the use of research among Australian policy-makers and practitioners whose work relates to children (0-12 years) and families in disadvantaged communities. The clearinghouse collects, produces and distributes information and resources about this topic.

Note: ^a CAFCA bibliographies were made available to users for the first time in June 2011.

Publication(s)

• McDonald, M. (2010). Are disadvantaged families "hard to reach"? Engaging disadvantaged families in child and family services (CAFCA Practice Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• McDonald, M. (2010). Building the capacity of professionals through post-qualification development and training (CAFCA Practice Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• McDonald, M. (2011). Social inclusion and social exclusion: Resources for child and family services (CAFCA Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• McDonald, M. (2011). What role can child and family services play in enhancing opportunities for parents and families? Exploring the concepts of social exclusion and social inclusion (CAFCA Practice Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• McDonald, M., & Rosier, K. (2011). Collecting data from parents and children for the purposes of evaluation: Issues for children and family services in disadvantaged communities (CAFCA Practice Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Parker, R. (2010). Evaluating programs (CAFCA Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Parker, R., & McDonald, M. (2010). Assessing and responding to parenting support needs in disadvantaged families: Lessons from parent education programs (CAFCA Practice Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Price-Robertson, R. (2010). Supporting young parents (CAFCA Practice Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Price-Robertson, R. (2011). What is community disadvantage? Understanding the issues, overcoming the problem (CAFCA Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Price-Robertson, R., & McDonald, M. (2011). What role can child and family services play in enhancing opportunities for parents and families: Exploring the concepts of social exclusion and social inclusion (CAFCA Practice Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Tehan, B., & M. McDonald (2010). Engaging fathers in child and family services (CAFCA Practice Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Presentation(s)

• McDonald, M. (2010, 2 August). Innovative methods for engaging disadvantaged families: Lessons from Promising Practice Profiles. Association of Children's Welfare Agencies Conference, Sydney.
• McDonald, M. (2010, 25 November). Social inclusion in child and family services. Children, Communities, Connections Conference, Adelaide.
• McDonald, M., Bromfield, L., Parker, R., & Higgins. D. (2010, 8 July). Building a robust evidence base through research/practice collaboration: Lessons from Promising Practice Profiles. Poster, Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• McDonald, M., & Parker, R. (2010, February). Learning from Promising Practice Profiles. Building Practice-Based Evidence Through the Evaluation of Parenting and Early Childhood Intervention Programs Seminar, Melbourne.
• Parker, R., McDonald, M., & Higgins, J. (2010, 3 August). Challenges in evaluating child & family welfare services. Association of Children's Welfare Agencies Conference, Sydney.

National Child Protection Clearinghouse

The National Child Protection Clearinghouse is a research and information advisory unit focused on child abuse prevention, child protection and out-of-home care. The clearinghouse aims to resource and support the child and family welfare sector to make evidence-informed policy and practice decisions. It collects, produces and distributes information and resources, conducts research, and offers specialist advice on the latest developments in child abuse prevention, child protection and out-of-home care. The clearinghouse receives regular requests for information from policy-makers within the Australian and State and Territory governments, a strong indication of its significance within the field.

The clearinghouse is funded by FaHCSIA, as part of the Australian Government's response to the problem of child abuse and neglect.

Note: ^a Items include books, reports, articles, conference papers and audiovisual material.

Publication(s)

Issues papers

• Bromfield, L., Lamont, A., Parker, R., & Horsfall, B. (2010). Issues for the safety and wellbeing of children in families with multiple and complex problems: The co-occurrence of domestic violence, parental substance misuse, and mental health problems (NCPC Issues Paper No. 33). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Higgins, D., & Kaspiew R. (2011). Child protection and family law: Joining the dots (NCPC Issues No. 34). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Horsfall, B., Bromfield, L., & McDonald, M. (2010). Are social marketing campaigns effective in preventing child abuse and neglect? (NCPC Issues Paper No. 32). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

New Resource Sheets

• Lamont, A., & Bromfield, L. (2010). History of child protection services (NCPC Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Lohoar, S., & Price-Robertson, R. (2011). Helplines and telephone counselling services for children, young people and parents (NCPC Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Price-Robertson, R., & Bromfield, L. (2011). Risk assessment in child protection (NCPC Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Updated Resource Sheets

• Berlyn, C., Bromfield, L., & Lamont, A. (2011, April). Child protection and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children (NCPC Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Berlyn, C., Holzer, P., & Higgins, D. (2011, February). Pre-employment screening: Working with children checks and police checks (NCPC Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Bromfield, L., Holzer, P., & Lamont, A. (2011, April). The economic costs of child abuse and neglect (NCPC Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Higgins, D., Bromfield, L., Richardson, N., Holzer, P., & Berlyn, C. (2010, August). Mandatory reporting of child abuse (NCPC Resource Sheet). Australian Institute of Family Studies, Melbourne.
• Lamont, A. (2010, December). Child deaths from abuse and neglect in Australia (formerly Fatal child abuse) (NCPC Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Lamont, A. (2011, February). Child abuse and neglect statistics (NCPC Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Lamont, A. (2011, February). Who abuses children? (NCPC Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Lamont, A. (2011, March). Children in care (NCPC Resource Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Lamont, A. & Holzer, P. (2010, July). Children's commissioners and guardians (NCPC Resource Sheet). Australian Institute of Family Studies, Melbourne.

Presentation(s)

• Higgins, D. (2011, 6 May). Child safety and protection in Indigenous communities. Australasian Institute of Judicial Administration Conference, Brisbane.
• Higgins, D., & Kaspiew, R. (2011, 6 May). Child protection and family law: Joining the dots. Australasian Institute of Judicial Administration Conference, Brisbane.
• Lamont, A., & Bromfield, L. (2010, 2 August). Parental intellectual disability and child protection: Key issues. Association of Child Welfare Agencies Conference, Sydney.
• Lamont, A., & Bromfield, L. (2010, 15 October). Families with multiple and complex problems: Issues for the safety and wellbeing of children. Australian College for Child and Family Protection Practitioners National Conference, Canberra.
• Price-Robertson, R., Bromfield, L., & Vasallo, S. (2010, 7 July). What is the prevalence of child abuse and neglect in Australia? A review of the evidence. 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne.
• Robinson, E. (2010, 13 September). What works for adolescents? Family connections and involvement in interventions. Finding Solutions Conference, Melbourne.
• Robinson, E. (2011, 2 May). Adolescents and their families. North Central Victoria Family Services Alliance Forum, Bendigo, Vic.

Report on performance - Communications activities

Overview

A key role for the Institute is to communicate research about issues affecting families in Australia. To do so, the Institute disseminates a wide range of information and research-based products and services, and undertakes knowledge exchange activities through research; submissions and advisory services to government; production of publications; communications services; information collection and library services; conferences, seminars and presentations; representation on editorial and advisory boards; and consultation activities.

During the reporting period, the Australian Information Commissioner Act 2010 and the Freedom of Information Amendment (Reform) Act 2010 came into force in response to 2009 recommendations made by the Government 2.0 Taskforce. In accordance with the new legislation, the Institute published the information required under the new Information Publication Scheme (see also Appendix A, "Freedom of information") and prepared for the introduction of the Creative Commons licensing system for all public sector information (PSI) available from the Institute. Implementation of this system will take place during 2011-12.

Publications

In addition to the wide range of publications produced in the course of its research activities, the Institute also publishes its research journal, Family Matters, the Research Paper and Research Report series and other publications. Table 3.4 shows that, overall, the distribution of AIFS publications increased substantially in 2010-11 over previous years.

Note: ^a The reduction in numbers of print publications distributed in 2010-11 reflects the Institute's ongoing process to move more towards online distribution. This was achieved through refining our mailing lists and reducing print distribution numbers.

Family Matters journal

Family Matters is one of the Institute's main research dissemination vehicle, with the primary purpose of keeping local and international readers informed about Institute research and activities. In addition, the journal keeps its readers informed of a broad range of family-related research by publishing articles from other Australian and overseas authors. Family Matters is a fully refereed academic journal recognised by the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research for the purposes of Higher Education Research Data Collection.

Family Matters provides a diverse range of perspectives and analyses of family research and policy options. In addition to research articles on family-related topics, regular columns include the Director's report, information and discussion of new developments in family law, reports of Institute seminars, information about Institute programs and activities and notes on new books.

Three editions of Family Matters were prepared in 2010-11.

• Family Matters, No. 86, 2010 - "Family law" - featured articles on the AIFS evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms; care-time arrangements; shared post-separation parenting; post-separation parenting arrangements; the effect of family violence on post-separation parenting arrangements; mothers who are liable to pay child support; relocation disputes in separated families; and persistent work-family strain among Australian mothers.
• Family Matters, No. 87, 2011 - "Sustaining families in challenging times" - featured articles based on presentations made at the 11th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference in July 2010. Issues covered included: being time poor; children in poverty; UK family policy, lone mothers and paid work; families at risk; living-apart-together relationships; and past adoption practices in Australia.
• Family Matters, No. 88, 2011 - "Family resources, roles and responsibilities" - focused on a range of issues related to family roles and responsibilities. Topics covered include: intergenerational bequests; fathering in Australia; family violence; the effect of pregnancy and newborns on the household budget; grandparenting and the 2006 family law reforms; shared care time; and family involvement in interventions for adolescent problem behaviours. This issue was prepared during 2010-11 for publication in the second half of 2011.

In 2010-11, Family Matters was available by subscription, in hard copy from AIFS and online from RMIT Publishing's Informit e-Library. To meet the Institute's aim of reaching a wide and diverse audience, it was also distributed at no cost to an extensive list of members of parliament, key policy-makers, and the media. During the reporting period, it was decided to make changes to the subscription model for Family Matters - from 2011-12 onwards, two longer issues of the journal will be published each year and all issues will be immediately available online for free, under a Creative Commons licence, with printed copies still being available on paid subscription.

Family Matters continues to draw considerable media attention, with follow-up radio and press interviews and articles.

Research papers and reports

The Research Paper series is an important means by which Institute research findings and methodologies are made public. The series disseminates Institute research to policy-makers, practitioners and researchers, with the aim of encouraging dialogue with research and policy communities. In 2010-11, two Research Papers were published:

• Taylor, M., & Gray, M. (2010). The impact of child support payments on the labour supply decisions of resident mothers (Research Paper No. 47). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Baxter, J., & Renda, J. (2011). Lone and couple mothers in the Australian labour market: Exploring differences in employment transitions (Research Paper No. 48). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

The Research Report series comprises more substantial works that report on research findings of a major project. In 2010-11, one Research Report was published:

• Clark, H., & Quadara, A. (2010). Insights into sexual assault perpetration: Giving voice to victim/survivors' knowledge (Research Report No. 18). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Other publications

In addition to Family Matters, reports resulting from commissioned research, and articles and chapters published in external journals and books, Institute staff also produce occasional publications aimed at a broader audience that distil major research findings on topical issues. To this end, two Facts Sheets were published in 2010-11:

• Hayes, A., Weston, R., Qu, L., & Gray, M. (2010). Families then and now: 1980-2010 (Facts Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies. This publication was prepared to celebrate the 30th anniversary of research by the Australian Institute of Family Studies.
• Baxter, J., Hayes, A., & Gray, M. (2011). Families in regional, rural and remote Australia (Facts Sheet). Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies. This Facts Sheet used data from LSAC and the ABS to describe the characteristics of Australian families living in the "city", "country" or the "bush".

In addition, for Families Week, 15-21 May 2011, the Institute published a short report: Families in Australia: Sticking Together in Good and Tough Times, prepared by Alan Hayes, Lixia Qu, Ruth Weston and Jennifer Baxter. The report drew on recent statistics to provide a picture of selected aspects of Australian families in 2011 and received considerable media attention. It is the first of what will be an annual series that will report on the progress of families in Australia.

A complete listing of Institute publications is available on the AIFS website: <www.aifs.gov.au>.

Submissions to inquiries and reviews

During the reporting period, the Institute's research staff prepared submissions to the following government inquiries and reviews:

• July 2010 - Response to the report Family Violence: Improving Legal Frameworks. Australian Law Reform Commission and the New South Wales Law Reform Commission.
• August 2010 - Response to the issues paper Confidentiality, Admissibility, Practitioner Immunity and Conduct Obligations in ADR Processes. National Alternative Dispute Resolution Advisory Council (NADRAC).
• December 2010 - Inquiry into the Commonwealth Commissioner for Children and Young People Bill 2010. Senate Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs.
• January 2011 - Exposure Draft of the Family Law Amendment (Family Violence) Bill 2010. Attorney-General's Department.
• February 2011 - Inquiry into the Commonwealth Contribution to Former Forced Adoption Policies and Practices. Senate Community Affairs References Committee.
• February 2011 - Discussion paper on possible measures to address the practices of forced and servile marriage: A legal and service-based responses. Attorney-General's Department.
• March 2011 - Response to the Consultation Paper on Children's Contact Services. Attorney-General's Department.
• April 2011 - Inquiry into Family Law Legislation Amendment (Family Violence and Other Measures) Bill 2011. Senate Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs.
• May 2011 - Response to the consultation paper on Best Practice Principles for Use in Parenting Disputes When Family Violence or Abuse is Alleged. Family Court of Australia and Federal Magistrates Court.

Online communications

Websites

AIFS designs and hosts an external website <www.aifs.gov.au> and a number of subsites:

• the Institute's four clearinghouses (ACSSA, AFRC, CAFCA and NCPC); and
• the longitudinal research projects (LSAC and ATP).

Table 3.5 shows that the total page downloads for all AIFS websites increased slightly in 2010-11 from previous years.

Electronic alerts

AIFS email alerts, e-newsletters and discussion groups keep stakeholders up-to-date with the work and activities of the Institute and each other. The number of email list subscribers increased substantially in 2010-11 compared to previous years (Table 3.6).

Note: ^a This figure includes the NCPC-alert statistics for which there are currently 3,016 subscribers

Social media

Facebook

In October 2010, AIFS launched a Facebook page as a low-cost channel to promote new publications, seminars and event photographs and, potentially, to undertake public consultations. At the end of the reporting period, the page had 97 people listed who "liked" the page.

It is anticipated that Facebook will increase awareness of Institute research activities, especially among journalists and the youth demographic. Risk management processes are in place to monitor the content of these pages.

Podcasts

Audio recordings of AIFS Seminar Series presentations are available as podcasts on the AIFS website, alongside transcripts and presentation slides. Podcasts are a useful tool for enabling people to listen to seminars after the event.

RSS feeds

AIFS offers RSS feeds to provide subscribers with rapid notification of new AIFS publications and event information.

Twitter

In 2010-11, the Institute continued to use Twitter as another channel to promote its activities online by sending micro text messages to subscribers. Twitter is used to promote Institute and clearinghouse activities, especially within youth and media markets. In particular, AIFS is using the medium to promote its seminars, conferences and publications.

The Institute now has six Twitter accounts with 770 followers. AIFS has one general account, and one for each of the AIFS clearinghouses (ACSSA, AFRC, CAFCA and NCPC).

Webinars

In 2010-11, the Institute introduced the capacity to conduct Webinars - or online interactive seminars (via a subscription to a service). Webinars integrate PowerPoint presentations,webcam images, participant presentations, slides, questions and messages. Hosting and participating in Webinars expands the capacity of AIFS to disseminate its research, build communities of practice and collaborate with invested stakeholders.

Wikipedia

Wikipedia lists information on the Institute's history and services. Wikipedia is a useful global reference tool for providing general information about AIFS. Ongoing monitoring is in place to manage the risk that public editing of the entry could result in inaccurate information being posted.

YouTube and video

The Institute has undertaken a cost-benefit analysis of using YouTube and video clips as media for disseminating information about AIFS, its research methods and its research findings. An AIFS YouTube channel is being created and will be launched in 2011-12.

External relations

External representation

AIFS staff serve on editorial boards, act as external reviewers for academic journals, and are members of steering committees, advisory committees and expert panels.

AIFS staff sat on the editorial boards of the following journals in 2010-11:

• Australian Educational and Developmental Psychologist
• Australian Journal of Family Law
• Child Maltreatment: Journal of the American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children
• Developing Practice: The Child youth and Family Work Journal
• Family Science
• Gay and Lesbian Issues and Psychology Review
• Journal of Family Studies
• Journal of Religion & Abuse: Advocacy, Pastoral Care and Prevention
• Journal of Sexual and Relationship Therapy
• Threshold: A Magazine About Marriage Education

In addition to providing editorial advice and services to the journals outlined above, AIFS staff acted as referees for the following publications in 2010-11:

• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Australia's Welfare 2011
• Australian Journal of Labour Economics
• Australian Research Council Grants Scheme
• Developmental Medicine and Clinical Neurology
• Journal of Family and Economic Issues
• Journal of Family Studies
• Maternal and Child Health Journal
• Youth Studies Australia

Institute researchers provide professional advice through their membership of external groups and forums:

• Academic Advisory Board, School of Psychology, Deakin University
• American Psychological Society
• APS200 Leadership Forum, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Australian Public Service Commission
• ARACY (Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth)
• ARACY Early Childhood Development Research Reference Group
• ARACY Research Network, New Investigators Network, Advisory Group
• Association of Industrial Relations Academics of Australian and New Zealand
• Australasian Human Development Association Trust
• Australasian Statutory Child Protection Learning and Development Group
• Australian Consortium for Social and Political Research (ACSPRI)
• Australian Domestic and Family Violence Clearinghouse Reference Group, University of New South Wales
• Australian Population Association
• Australian Psychological Society
• Australian Social Policy Association
• Brotherhood of St Laurence's Life Chances Study Advisory Group
• Centre for Community Child Health, Platforms Advisory Group, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne
• Channel 7 Children's Research Foundation
• Chief Justice's Family Law Forum
• Child Support National Stakeholder Engagement Group, FaHCSIA and Child Support Agency
• Children and Families Research Centre Advisory Board, Macquarie University
• Children and Youth Statistics Advisory Group, Australian Bureau of Statistics
• Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Act 1999 and Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency, Implementation Advisory Group
• Expert Reference Panel Relating to the Work of Family Consultants in the Family Court of Australia
• Family Law Council, Attorney-General's Department
• Family Law System Reference Group, Attorney-General's Department
• Family Mediation Centre Services, Clinical Supervisor
• Family Relationship Services Australia Conference 2010, Organising Committee
• Family Statistics Advisory Group, Australian Bureau of Statistics
• General Social Survey Reference Group, Australian Bureau of Statistics
• Headline Indicator Data Development Expert Working Group, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
• Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY), National Evaluation Advisory Group, DEEWR
• Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia, External Reference Group
• Law Council of Australia, National Advisory Board of the Family Law Section
• Longitudinal Studies Advisory Group, FaHCSIA
• Marriage and Relationship Educators' Association of Australia, National Executive
• National Association of Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, Victoria Advisory Council
• National Council on Family Relations (USA)
• National Families Week, Families Australia
• National Marriage and Relationship Education Conference, Organising Committee
• Pathways of Care: Longitudinal Study of Children and Young People in Out-of-Home Care in NSW, Academic Advisory Group
• Raising Children Network: Parenting Information Website, Advisory Group
• Relationships Australia, Professional Quality Committee
• Social Policy Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Advisory Committee
• Statewide Workforce Development Project, CASA House, Reference Group
• Statistical Society of Australia, Victorian Branch Council
• Victims of Crime Research Agenda Advisory Committee, NSW Department of Justice and Attorney-General
• Violence Against Women Advisory Group, Minister for the Status of Women, The Hon. Tanya Plibersek
• Work and Family Roundtable, DEEWR

Consultations

Individuals, government bodies and community sector organisations consult with AIFS, and Institute staff are members of a number of advisory groups. Such consultation is an indication of the Institute's involvement in the policy process. In the reporting period, consultations were undertaken covering a broad range of issues, including work and family, labour markets, social capital, child protection and social inclusion.

Visitors

A number of academics and representatives of government and community sector organisations from within and outside Australia met with Institute researchers to exchange ideas on issues of relevance to the Institute's research.

Key visitors (1 July 2010-30 June 2011)

• Their Excellencies, the Governor-General of Australia and Mr Bryce (September 2010)
• Delegation from the Singapore Ministry of Community, Development, Youth and Sports (July 2010)
• Delegations from the New Zealand Families Commission (July and August 2010, and March 2011)
• Ms Donna Goodwin, Manager, Families/Individuals, Customer and Product Innovation, Inland Revenue Department, New Zealand (August 2010)
• Delegation from the Ministry of Education, Taiwan (September 2010)
• Delegation from the Family Department, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Vietnam (September 2010)
• Delegation from the National Bureau of Statistics, People's Republic of China (November 2010)
• UK Family Justice Review Group - Mr David Norgrove (Review Chair), Justice Andrew McFarlane (High Court) and members of the Secretariat (November 2010)
• Delegations from the Ministry of Social Affairs, Indonesia (December 2010 and June 2011)
• Mr Ross Gibbs, Director-General, National Archives of Australia (February 2011)
• Their Honours, Judge Ogiwara, Tokyo District Court, and Assistant Judge Ueno, Okayama Family Court, Japan (March 2011)
• Ms Han Jinjing, Child Protection Lawyer and Research Fellow, Beijing Children's Legal Aid and Research Centre (March 2011)
• Delegation from the Social Services Committee, New Zealand Parliament - Ms Katrina Shanks MP (Chair) with members of the Committee and Secretariat (May 2011)
• Visiting scholars:
  • Dr Leanne Smith, Cardiff Law School, UK (July 2010)
  • Dr Sharon Vincent, University of Edinburgh, UK (September 2010 to February 2011)
  • Associate Professor Anne Roeters, University of Utrecht, The Netherlands (March 2011)
  • Dr Vivienne Elizabeth, University of Auckland (May 2011).

Library and information services

Library

The library offers a highly responsive information service supporting the work of the Institute, and a specialist collection of online and hard copy resources on family-related research that is disseminated as widely and cost-effectively as possible.

AIFS Library services include:

• an information helpdesk to support the four AIFS clearinghouses (ACSSA, AFRC, CAFCA and NCPC);
• a reference service available to the wider community and support for visitors by appointment;
• a library catalogue, available on the Institute's website; and
• interlibrary loans to other libraries throughout Australia and overseas.

Knowledge base of bibliographic records

Since 1980, AIFS has created a knowledge base of more than 100,000 bibliographic records drawn from sociology, psychology, demography, health sciences, education, economics, law, history and social work source documents. The records describe relevant journal articles, conference papers, books, book chapters, government reports, research reports, discussion and working papers, unpublished papers, statistical documents and theses relevant to the study of families. AIFS bibliographic records are provided to the Libraries Australia National Bibliographic Database, managed by the National Library of Australia.

In 2010-11, in addition to using these records for the traditional purposes of recording and managing what is in the library collection, the Institute also drew on them to:

• continue to build the Australian Family & Society Abstracts (AF&SA) database;
• upload new records to Libraries Australia;
• send relevant records to the AIHW to support the Closing the Gap Clearinghouse;
• create bibliographies on current topics and display them on the clearinghouse websites; and
• add details of new AIFS publications to the Institute's website.

Australian Family & Society Abstracts

AIFS has supplied more than 70,000 citations and abstracts from its bibliographic database for the AF&SA database. AF&SA resources are available at RMIT Publishing's Informit online service <www.informit.com.au>.

Conferences

Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference

The 11th AIFS Conference took place from 7 to 9 July 2010 at the Melbourne Convention Centre. In the Institute's 30th anniversary year, the conference was the focus of key celebrations of this major milestone in the life of the Institute, and to mark the occasion, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, The Hon. Anthony Byrne MP, launched the AIFS Facts Sheet, Families Then and Now: 1980-2010.

Structured around the Institute's Research Plan 2009-12: Sustaining Families in Challenging Times, the conference focused on the six major themes that shape the new plan: economic wellbeing of families; families and work; social inclusion; violence, abuse and neglect; family transitions and family law; and children, young people and their families. The conference was attended by 469 delegates from over 100 organisations. The program included 129 oral presentations and symposia and 40 poster presentations.

The Hon. Jenny Macklin MP, Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, delivered the official opening address, which focused on paid parental leave, a policy area that has been informed by the Institute's research on work and family balance spanning its three decades.

Professor Bob Goodin, from the Research School of Social Sciences at the Australian National University, delivered the first keynote address. Professor Goodin provided a thought-provoking presentation titled Who's Really Time Poor?, based on his book Discretionary Time: A New Measure of Freedom.

The second keynote address was delivered by Professor Aletha C. Huston, from the University of Texas, USA. Professor Huston addressed the topic Children in Poverty: Can Public Policy Alleviate the Consequences? and discussed issues at the heart of the current social inclusion policy focus in Australia and internationally.

Professor Jane Millar, from the University of Bath, UK, provided the final keynote address. She presented data from her recent studies of lone mothers and children in low-income working households in an address titled Desperately Seeking Security: UK Family Policy, Lone Mothers and Paid Work, which highlighted comparisons between UK and Australian social policy approaches.

A plenary panel session closed each day of the conference - on the topics Family Law: Family Violence; Addressing Family Disadvantage; and Fair, Flexible, Family-friendly Workplaces - all of which stimulated lively discussions. The panel lead speakers included Judge Peter Boshier, Principal Judge of the Family Court of New Zealand; Ms Naomi Eisenstadt CB, from the United Kingdom; and Ms Elizabeth Broderick, the Australian Sex Discrimination Commissioner and Commissioner Responsible for Age Discrimination. They were ably supported by eminent panelists, including Professor Richard Chisholm AM; Dr Rae Kaspiew; Anne Hollonds; Patricia Faulkner AO; The Hon. Lilly D'Ambrosio MLA, Victorian Minister for Community Development; Tony Keenan, Chief Executive of Hanover Welfare, Victoria; Melinda Cilento, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Business Council of Australia; and Ged Kearney, Incoming President of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU).

LSAC and LSIC Conference

Throughout 2010-11, preparations were underway for the next LSAC and LSIC Research Conference, to be held on 15-16 November 2011 at Rydges on Swanston, Melbourne. The conference will provide an important opportunity for researchers and policy-makers to discuss research based on LSAC and LSIC data.

Seminar Series

The AIFS Seminar Series is a public forum at which invited researchers and policy-makers speak on contemporary family-related research and social issues. AIFS Seminars are free and open to the public. Where practicable, the Institute provides presentation material and associated speaker papers for free download via the Institute website.

Seminars hosted by the Institute

8 September 2010

 

Professor Marianne Berry, Director, Australian Centre for Child Protection, University of South Australia

Current trends in child abuse and neglect in the United States: What might Australians learn and disregard from this evidence base?

 

13 October 2010

 

Dr Sharon Vincent, Senior Research Fellow, University of Edinburgh/National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children Centre for UK-Wide Learning in Child Protection

Safeguarding and protecting children across the United Kingdom

 

9 November 2010

 

Professor Rosalind Croucher, President, Australian Law Reform Commission

Fractured families, fragmented responsibilities: Responding to family violence in a federal system

 

15 February 2011

 

Dr Rae Kaspiew, Senior Research Fellow, Australian Institute of Family Studies

Litigated relocation disputes 2002-2005: An empirical study

 

15 March 2011

 

Dr Belinda Hewitt, Senior Research Fellow, University of Queensland

Short-term physical, emotional and financial well-being after separation: Does initiator status make a difference?

 

14 April 2011

 

Professor Deborah Cobb-Clark, Director of the Melbourne Institute of Economic and Social Research

Disadvantages across the generations: What do we know about social and economic mobility in Australia?

 

10 May 2011

 

Gerry Redmond, Senior Research Fellow, Social Policy Research Centre, University of New South Wales

Investment in children in Australia: Do current patterns point towards increased intergenerational mobility in the future?

 

23 June 2011

 

Professor Barbara Pocock, Director of the Centre of Work and Life, University of South Australia

Work hours, requests for flexibility and work-life interference in Australia: What we know, what we need to know

Media coverage

The engagement of media is an important means of communicating the Institute's research findings about factors that affect family wellbeing. Eight media releases were issued in 2010-11.

The level of media coverage and audience reach of the Institute's research increased significantly in 2010-11 compared with previous years (Tables 3.7 and 3.8). A total of 3,556 reports across all media types mentioned the Institute's research, which was a 62% increase on the 2,197 reports recorded in 2009-10. Mentions in each media channel increased, with Internet mentions experiencing the biggest increase (71%).

Source: Media Monitors

Note: ^a Audience figures are unavailable for Internet media.

Source: Media Monitors

Report on performance - Financial activities

Operating results

With effect from 2010-11, depreciation and amortisation are no longer funded by appropriation from Government. Instead replacement of fixed assets is funded from the Departmental Capital Budget. As a result of this change it is expected that the Institute will have a deficit equivalent to the depreciation expense. The actual depreciation expense for 2010-11 was $296,686. The Institute finished the financial year 2010-11 with a deficit of $295,616, or a small surplus of $1,070 (2009-10: $1,962) after adjusting for depreciation and amortisation. The budgeted result in the Portfolio Budget Statements 2011-12 is a deficit of $306,000, equivalent to the budgeted depreciation expense.

See Table 3.9 for a summary of budgeted and actual expenses for 2010-11.

Operating revenue

The total operating revenue was $9,136,647 and consisted of the following:

• government appropriations of $3,518,000;
• sale of goods and rendering of services of $5,454,391; and
• other revenue of $164,256.

Revenue from government appropriations decreased by a net amount of $332,000 from 2009-10, mainly as result of the change in depreciation funding with some ongoing savings measures, offset partially by increases resulting from changes in prices and wages indices.

Operating expenses

Total operating expenses were $9,432,263 and consisted of:

• employee costs of $6,674,420;
• supplier expenses of $2,437,484;
• depreciation and audit fees of $319,186; and
• loss from asset sales of $1,173.

Balance sheet

Net asset position

The net asset position at 30 June 2011 was $1,728,907 (2009-10: $1,794,523).

Total assets

Total assets at 30 June 2011 were $6,340,451 (2009-10: $5,628,792). Financial assets increased by $1,001,956. The increase in financial assets was mainly due to an increase in receipt of prepaid revenue. Non-financial assets decreased by $290,297. The decrease in non-financial assets is due to additions of fixed assets being less than the depreciation for the year.

Total liabilities

Total liabilities at 30 June 2011 were $4,611,544 (2009-10: $3,834,269). The difference is mainly due to a increase in the level of unearned revenue in 2010-11.

Independent Auditor's Report

To the Parliamentary Secretary of the Prime Minister

I have audited the accompanying financial statements of the Australian Institute of Family Studies (the Institute) for the year ended 30 June 2011, which comprise: a Statement by the Directors and Chief Finance Officer; Statement of Comprehensive Income; Balance Sheet; Statement of Changes in Equity; Cash Flow Statement; Schedule of Commitments; Schedule of Asset Additions; and Notes to and forming part of the Financial Statements, including a Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.

Director's Responsibility for the Financial Statements

The Director is responsible for the preparation of financial statements that give a true and fair view in accordance with the Finance Minister's Orders made under the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997, including the Australian Accounting Standards, and for such internal control as the Director determines is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

Auditor's Responsibility

My responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements based on my audit. I have conducted my audit in accordance with the Australian National Audit Office Auditing Standards, which incorporate the Australian Auditing Standards. These auditing standards require that I comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the Institute's preparation of the financial statements that give a true and fair view in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Institute's internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of the accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the Director of the Institute, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.

I believe that the audit evidence I have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for my audit opinion.

Independence

In conducting my audit, I have followed the independence requirements of the Australian National Audit Office, which incorporate the requirements of the Australian accounting profession.

Opinion

In my opinion, the financial statements of the Australian Institute of Family Studies:

1. have been prepared in accordance with the Finance Minister's Orders made under the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997, including the Australian Accounting Standards; and
2. give a true and fair view of the matters required by the Finance Minister's Orders including the Australian Institute of Family Studies' financial position as at 30 June 2011 and of its financial performance and cash flows for the year then ended.

Australian National Audit Office

Ron Wah 
Audit Principal 
Delegate of the Auditor-General 
Canberra 
26 August 2011

GPO Box 707 CANBERRA ACT 2601 
19 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600 
Phone (02) 6203 7300 Fax (02) 6203 7777

Statement by the Directors and Chief Finance Officer

for the period ended 30 June 2011

In our opinion, the attached financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2011 are based on properly maintained financial records and give a true and fair view of the matters required by the Finance Minister's Orders made under the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997, as amended.

Alan Hayes, Director, 26 August 2011

Sue Tait, Deputy Director Corporate and Strategy, 26 August 2011

Susan Leong, Chief Finance Officer, 26 August 2011

The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

NB: Commitments are GST-inclusive where relevant.

1 Project commitments receivable are based on known commitments for contracted research funds (i.e., amount specified in contract agreement).

2 Operating leases included effectively are non-cancellable and comprise:

• Lease for office accommodation 
  The Institute has entered into a 10-year tenancy agreement at 485 La Trobe Street, Melbourne, which runs to 28 February 2017. Lease payments are subject to an annual fixed percentage increase of 3.75%. The lease may be renewed for a further term of 5 years at the Institute's option, following a once-off adjustment of rental to market levels.
• Agreements for the provision of motor vehicles to senior executive officers 
  No contingent rental exists. There are no renewal or purchase options available to the Institute.

The above schedule should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Index

• Note 1: Summary of significant accounting policies
• Note 2: Events after the reporting period
• Note 3: Expenses
• Note 4: Income
• Note 5: Financial assets
• Note 6: Non-financial assets
• Note 7: Payables
• Note 8: Provisions
• Note 9: Cash flow reconciliation
• Note 10: Senior executive remuneration
• Note 11: Remuneration of auditors
• Note 12: Financial instruments
• Note 13: Appropriations
• Note 14: Special accounts
• Note 15: Compensation and debt relief
• Note 16: Reporting of outcomes
• Note 17: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the Institute

Note 1: Summary of significant accounting policies

1.1 Objectives of the Australian Institute of Family Studies

The Australian Institute of Family Studies ("the Institute") is an Australian Government controlled entity.

The Institute is structured to meet a single outcome, namely to increase understanding of factors affecting how families function by conducting research and communicating findings to policy-makers, service providers and the broader community.

The Institute's activities contributing toward this outcome are classified as departmental. Departmental activities involve the use of assets, liabilities, income and expenses controlled or incurred by the Institute in its own right.

The key objectives of the Institute are to:

• conduct high-quality research relevant to policy and practice on a broad range of issues regarding families in Australia;
• expand the national knowledge base of factors affecting families through collaborative partnerships;
• increase the effectiveness of communications to foster greater understanding about factors that affect families; and
• build organisational capacity to achieve research and communication objectives.

The continued existence of the Institute in its present form and with its present programs is dependent on Government policy and on continuing funding by Parliament and contract research revenue for the Institute's administration and programs.

1.2 Basis of preparation of the financial statements

The financial statements are general purpose financial statements and are required by Section 49 of the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with:

1. Finance Minister's Orders (FMOs) for reporting periods ending on or after 1 July 2010; and
2. Australian Accounting Standards and Interpretations issued by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) that apply for the reporting period.

The financial statements have been prepared on an accrual basis and in accordance with the historical cost convention, except for certain assets and liabilities at fair value. Except where stated, no allowance is made for the effect of changing prices on the results or the financial position.

The financial statements are presented in Australian dollars and values are rounded to the nearest dollar unless otherwise specified.

Unless an alternative treatment is specifically required by an accounting standard or the FMOs, assets and liabilities are recognised in the Balance Sheet when and only when it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the Institute or a future sacrifice of economic benefits will be required and the amounts of the assets or liabilities can be reliably measured. However, assets and liabilities arising under executor contracts are not recognised unless required by an accounting standard. Liabilities and assets that are unrecognised are reported in the Schedule of Commitments.

Unless alternative treatment is specifically required by an accounting standard, income and expenses are recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income when and only when the flow, consumption or loss of economic benefits has occurred and can be reliably measured.

1.3 Significant accounting judgements and estimates

No accounting assumptions or estimates have been identified that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next reporting period.

1.4 New Australian Accounting Standards

Adoption of New Australian Accounting Standard Requirements

No accounting standard has been adopted earlier than the application date as stated in the standard.

Of the new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations issued prior to the signoff date and are applicable to the current reporting period, none have had a financial impact, and are not expected to have a future financial impact on the Institute.

Future Australian Accounting Standard Requirements

Of the new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations that were issued by the Australian Accounting Standards Board prior to the signoff date and are applicable to future reporting periods, none are expected to have a future financial impact on the Institute.

1.5 Revenue

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when:

1. the risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred to the buyer;
2. the Institute retains no managerial involvement nor effective control over the goods;
3. the revenue and transaction costs incurred can be reliably measured; and
4. it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the Institute.

The Institute receives contract revenue by conducting high-quality research relevant to policy and practice on a broad range of issues regarding families in Australia for various stakeholders. The key stakeholders comprise mainly other Commonwealth agencies, State Government agencies as well as non-government entities.

Revenue from rendering of contract services is recognised by reference to the stage of completion of contracts at the reporting date. The revenue is recognised when:

1. the amount of revenue, stage of completion and transaction costs incurred can be reliably measured; and
2. the probable economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the Institute.

The stage of completion of contracts at the reporting date is determined by reference to either:

1. services performed to date as a percentage of total services to be performed; or
2. the proportion that costs incurred to date bear to the estimated total costs of the transaction.

Copyright royalty revenue for the use of the Institute's publications and bibliographic databases is recognised on an accrual basis.

Cost recovery which relates mainly to Comcare receipts and sponsorships of travel expenses is recognised on an accrual basis.

Receivables for goods and services, which have 30-day terms, are recognised at the nominal amounts due less any impairment allowance account. Collectability of debts is reviewed at end of the reporting period. Allowances are made when collectability of the debt is no longer probable.

Revenue from Government

Amounts appropriated for departmental appropriations for the year (adjusted for any formal additions and reductions) are recognised as Revenue from Government when the Institute gains control of the appropriation, except for certain amounts that relate to activities that are reciprocal in nature, in which case revenue is recognised only when it has been earned. Appropriations receivable are recognised at their nominal amounts.

Parental Leave Payments Scheme

The Institute offsets amounts received under the Parental Leave Payments Scheme (for payment to employees) by amounts paid to employees under that scheme, because these transactions are only incidental to the main revenue-generating activities of the Institute. Amounts received by the Institute not yet paid to employees would be presented gross as cash and a liability (payable).

There were no employees utilising the Parent Leave Payments Scheme in this current reporting period.

1.6 Gains

Resources received free of charge

Resources received free of charge are recognised as gains when, and only when, a fair value can be reliably determined and the services would have been purchased if they had not been donated. Use of those resources is recognised as an expense.

Resources received free of charge are recorded as either revenue or gains depending on their nature.

Contributions of assets at no cost of acquisition or for nominal consideration are recognised as gains at their fair value when the asset qualifies for recognition, unless received from another Government entity as a consequence of a restructuring of administrative arrangements (Refer to Note 1.7). The Institute did not receive any contribution of assets in both 2010-11 and 2009-10.

Sale of assets

Gains from disposal of assets are recognised when control of the asset has passed to the buyer.

1.7 Transactions with the Government as owner

Equity injections

Amounts appropriated which are designated as "equity injections" for a year (less any formal reductions) and Departmental Capital Budgets (DCBs) are recognised directly in contributed equity.

Restructuring of administrative arrangements

Net assets received from or relinquished to another Government entity under a restructuring of administrative arrangements are adjusted at their book value directly against contributed equity. The Institute was not involved in any restructuring of administrative arrangements in both 2010-11 and 2009-10.

Other distributions to owners

The FMOs require that distributions to owners be debited to contributed equity unless in the nature of a dividend. There was no distribution to owners in both 2010-11 and 2009-10.

1.8 Employee benefits

Liabilities for "short-term employee benefits" (as defined in AASB 119 Employee Benefits) and termination benefits due within twelve months of the end of reporting period are measured at their nominal amounts.

The nominal amount is calculated with regard to the rates expected to be paid on settlement of the liability.

Other long-term employee benefits are measured as net total of the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the reporting period minus the fair value at the end of the reporting period of plan assets (if any) out of which the obligations are to be settled directly.

Leave

The liability for employee benefits includes provision for annual leave and long service leave. No provision has been made for sick leave as all sick leave is non-vesting and the average sick leave taken in future years by employees of the Institute is estimated to be less than the annual entitlement for sick leave.

The leave liabilities are calculated on the basis of employees' remuneration at the estimated salary rates that will be applied at the time the leave is taken, including the Institute's employer superannuation contribution rates to the extent that the leave is likely to be taken during service rather than paid out on termination.

The liability for long service leave has been determined by use of the Department of Finance and Deregulation's shorthand method using the Standard Commonwealth sector probability profile. The estimate of the present value of the liability takes into account attrition rates and pay increases through promotion and inflation.

Separation and redundancy

No provision has been made for separation and redundancy benefit payments as the Institute has not formally identified any positions as excess to requirements at 30 June 2011 (2010: nil).

Superannuation

The majority of the staff of the Institute are members of the Commonwealth Superannuation Scheme (CSS), the Public Sector Superannuation Scheme (PSS) or the PSS accumulation plan (PSSap).

The CSS and PSS are defined benefit schemes for the Australian Government. The PSSap is a defined contribution scheme.

The liability for defined benefits is recognised in the financial statements of the Australian Government and is settled by the Australian Government in due course. This liability is reported by the Department of Finance and Deregulation as an administered item.

The Institute makes employer contributions to the employees' superannuation scheme at rates determined by an actuary to be sufficient to meet the current cost to the Government. The Institute accounts for the contributions as if they were contributions to defined contribution plans.

The liability for superannuation recognised as at 30 June represents outstanding contributions for the final fortnight of the year.

1.9 Leases

A distinction is made between finance leases and operating leases. Finance leases effectively transfer from the lessor to the lessee substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of leased assets. An operating lease is a lease that is not a finance lease. In operating leases, the lessor effectively retains substantially all such risks and benefits.

Operating lease payments are expensed on a straight-line basis which is representative of the pattern of benefits derived from the leased assets.

The Institute has no finance leases.

1.10 Cash

Cash is recognised at its nominal amount. Cash and cash equivalents includes:

1. cash on hand; and
2. demand deposits in bank accounts with an original maturity of 3 months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and subject to insignificant risk of changes in value.

1.11 Financial assets

The Institute classifies its financial assets as loans and receivables.

Financial assets are recognised and derecognised upon "trade date".

Effective interest method

The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a financial asset and of allocating interest income over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts through the expected life of the financial asset, or, where appropriate, a shorter period.

Income is recognised on an effective interest rate basis.

Loans and receivables

Trade receivables, loans and other receivables that have fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market are classified as ‘loans and receivables’. Loans and receivables are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method less impairment. Interest is recognised by applying the effective interest rate.

Impairment of financial assets

Financial assets are assessed for impairment at end of each reporting period.

Financial assets held at amortised cost - if there is objective evidence that an impairment loss has been incurred for loans and receivables held at amortised cost, the amount of the loss is measured as the difference between the asset's carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows discounted at the asset's original effective interest rate. The carrying amount is reduced by way of an allowance account. The loss is recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Income.

1.12 Financial liabilities

The Institute classifies its financial liabilities as ‘other financial liabilities’. This comprises suppliers and other payables that are recognised at amortised cost. Liabilities are recognised to the extent that the goods or services have been received (and irrespective of having been invoiced).

Financial liabilities are recognised and derecognised upon "trade date".

1.13 Contingent liabilities and contingent assets

Contingent liabilities and contingent assets are not recognised in the Balance Sheet but are reported in the relevant schedules and notes. They may arise from uncertainty as to the existence of a liability or asset or represent an asset or liability in respect of which the amount cannot be reliably measured. Contingent assets are disclosed when settlement is probable but not virtually certain and contingent liabilities are disclosed when settlement is greater than remote.

To the best of the Institute's knowledge, it was not exposed to any unrecognised contingencies that would have a material effect on the financial statements for both 2010-11 and 2009-10.

1.14 Acquisition of assets

Assets are recorded at cost on acquisition except as stated below. The cost of acquisition includes the fair value of assets transferred in exchange and liabilities undertaken. Financial assets are initially measured at their fair value plus transaction costs where appropriate.

Assets acquired at no cost, or for nominal consideration, are initially recognised as assets and income at their fair value at the date of acquisition, unless acquired as a consequence of restructuring of administrative arrangements. In the latter case, assets are initially recognised as contributions by owners at the amounts at which they were recognised in the transferor's accounts immediately prior to the restructuring.

1.15 Leasehold improvements, plant and equipment

Asset recognition threshold

Purchases of leasehold improvements, plant and equipment are recognised initially at cost in the Balance Sheet, except for purchases costing less than $1,000, which are expensed in the year of acquisition (other than where they form part of a group of similar items which are significant in total).

The initial cost of an asset includes an estimate of the cost of dismantling and removing the item and restoring the site on which it is located.

Revaluations

Fair values for each class of asset are determined as shown below:

Following initial recognition at cost, leasehold improvements, plant and equipment were carried at fair value less subsequent accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Valuations were conducted with sufficient frequency to ensure that the carrying amounts of assets do not differ materially from the assets' fair values as at the reporting date. The regularity of independent valuations depends upon the volatility of movements in market values for the relevant assets.

Revaluation adjustments are made on a class basis. Any revaluation increment is credited to equity under the heading of asset revaluation reserve except to the extent that it reverses a previous revaluation decrement of the same asset class that was previously recognised in the surplus/deficit. Revaluation decrements for a class of assets are recognised directly in the surplus/deficit except to the extent that they reverse a previous revaluation increment for that class.

Any accumulated depreciation as at the revaluation date is eliminated against the gross carrying amount of the asset and the asset restated to the revalued amount.

Depreciation

Depreciable leasehold improvements, plant and equipment assets are written off to their estimated residual values over their estimated useful lives to the Institute using, in all cases, the straight-line method of depreciation.

Depreciation rates (useful lives), residual values and methods are reviewed at each reporting date and necessary adjustments are recognised in the current, or current and future reporting periods, as appropriate.

Depreciation rates applying to each class of depreciable asset are based on the following useful lives:

Impairment

All assets were assessed for impairment at 30 June 2011. Where indications of impairment exist, the asset's recoverable amount is estimated and an impairment adjustment made if the asset's recoverable amount is less than its carrying amount.

The recoverable amount of an asset is the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. Value in use is the present value of the future cash flows expected to be derived from the asset. Where the future economic benefit of an asset is not primarily dependent on the asset's ability to generate future cash flows, and the asset would be replaced if the Institute were deprived of the asset, its value in use is taken to be its depreciated replacement cost.

Derecognition

An item of leasehold improvements, plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no further future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal.

1.16 Intangibles

The Institute's intangibles comprise commercially purchased software. These assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.

Software is amortised on a straight-line basis over its anticipated useful life. The useful lives of the Institute's software are 3 to 5 years (2009-10: 3 to 5 years).

All software assets were assessed for indications of impairment as at 30 June 2011.

1.17 Taxation

The Institute is exempt from all forms of taxation except Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) and the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of GST except:

1. where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian Taxation Office; and
2. for receivables and payables.

Note 2: Events after the reporting period

There were no significant events after the reporting period that would significantly affect the ongoing structure and financial activities of the Institute.

Note 3: Expenses

Note 4: Income

OWN-SOURCE REVENUE

GAINS

REVENUE FROM GOVERNMENT

Note 5: Financial assets

Note 6: Non-financial assets

All revaluations were conducted in accordance with the revaluation policy stated at Note 1. 
In 2009-10, an independent valuer of the Australian Valuation Office conducted the revaluations.

During 2009-10, write-downs of $14,018 for leasehold improvements (2011: nil) 
resulting from the revaluation were recognised as an expense.

No indicators of impairment were found for leasehold improvements.

No leasehold improvements are expected to be sold or disposed of within the next 12 months.

All revaluations were conducted in accordance with the revaluation policy stated at Note 1. 
In 2009-10, an independent valuer of the Australian Valuation Office conducted the revaluations.

During 2009-10, write-downs of $70,437 for plant and equipment (2011: nil) 
resulting from the revaluation were recognised as an expense.

No indicators of impairment were found for plant and equipment.

No plant and equipment is expected to be sold or disposed of within the next 12 months.

Note 6C: Reconciliation of the opening and closing balances of leasehold improvements, plant and equipment

* Disaggregated additions information are disclosed in the Schedule of Asset Additions.

* Disaggregated additions information are disclosed in the Schedule of Asset Additions.

No indicators of impairment were found for intangible assets.

No intangibles is expected to be sold or disposed of within the next 12 months.

Note 6E: Reconciliation of the opening and closing balances of intangibles

* Disaggregated additions information are disclosed in the Schedule of Asset Additions.

No indicators of impairment were found for other non-financial assets.

Note 7: Payables

Settlement is usually made within 30 days.

Note 8: Provisions

Note 9: Cash flow reconciliation

Note 10: Senior executive remuneration

Notes:

1. Note 10A was prepared on an accrual basis (so the performance bonus expenses disclosed above differ from the cash "Bonus paid" in Note 10B). In addition, performance bonuses for SES was discontinued from 1 January 2011; this has been rolled into salary.
2. Note 10A excludes acting arrangements and part-year service where remuneration expensed for a senior executive was less than $150,000.

Note 10B: Average annual remuneration packages and bonus paid for substantive senior executives as at end of the reporting period

Notes:

1. This table reports substantive senior executives who were employed by the Institute at the end of the reporting period. Fixed elements were based on the employment agreement of each individual. Each row represents an average annualised figure (based on headcount) for the individuals in that remuneration package band (i.e., the "Total" column).
2. This represents average actual bonuses paid during the reporting period in that remuneration package band. The "Bonus paid" was excluded from the "Total" calculation, (for the purpose of determining remuneration package bands). The "Bonus paid" within a particular band may vary between financial years due to various factors such as individuals commencing with or leaving the Institute during the financial year.

Variable elements:

With the exception of bonuses, variable elements were not included in the "Fixed elements and bonus paid" table above. The following variable elements were available as part of senior executives' remuneration package:

1. Bonuses:
   • Bonuses were based on the performance rating of each individual. The maximum bonus that an individual could receive was 15 per cent of his/her base salary. Performance bonuses for SES was discontinued from 1 January 2011; this has been rolled into salary.
2. On average, senior executives were entitled to the following leave entitlements:
   • Annual Leave (AL): entitled to 20 days (2010: 20 days) each full year worked (pro-rata for part-time SES);
   • Personal Leave (PL): entitled to 20 days (2010: 20 days) or part-time equivalent; and
   • Long Service Leave (LSL): in accordance with Long Service Leave (Commonwealth Employees) Act 1976.
3. Senior executives were members of one of the following superannuation funds:
   • Public Sector Superannuation Scheme (PSS): this scheme is closed to new members, with current employer contributions set at 15.7 per cent (2010: 15.5 per cent) (including productivity component). More information on PSS can be found at http://www.pss.gov.au;
   • Public Sector Superannuation accumulation plan (PSSap): employer contributions were set at 15.4 per cent (2010: 15.4 per cent), and the fund has been in operation since July 2005. More information on PSSap can be found at http://www.pssap.gov.au; and
   • Other: there was one senior executive who had his own superannuation arrangements (e.g., self-managed superannuation funds). His employer contributions was set at 17 per cent (2010: 17 per cent).
4. Various salary sacrifice arrangements were available to senior executives including super, motor vehicle and expense payment fringe benefits.

Note 10C: Other highly paid staff

During the reporting period, there were no employees (2010: nil) whose salary plus performance bonus were $150,000 or more.

Note 11: Remuneration of auditors

No other services were provided by the auditors of the financial statements.

Note 12: Financial instruments

Note 12B: Net income and expense from financial assets

There was no income or expense from financial assets - loans and receivables in the financial year ended 30 June 2011 (2010: nil).

Note 12C: Net income and expense from financial liabilities

There was no income or expense from financial liabilities - at amortised cost in the financial year ended 30 June 2011 (2010: nil).

Note 12D: Fair value of financial instruments

There were no financial instruments held at 30 June 2011 where the carrying amount is not a reasonable approximation of fair value (2010: nil).

Note 12E: Credit risk

The Institute was exposed to minimal credit risk as loans and receivables were cash, trade and other receivables. The maximum exposure to credit risk is the risk that arises from potential default of a debtor. This amount is equal to the total amount of trade and other receivables (2011: $577,403 and 2010: $683,061). The Institute has assessed that there is no risk of default on payment.

The Institute manages its credit risk by undertaking background and credit checks prior to allowing a debtor relationship and has no significant exposures to any concentrations of credit risk.

No financial instruments were impaired in 2011 (2010: nil).

The Institute holds no collateral to mitigate against credit risk.

Note 12F: Liquidity risk

The Institute's financial liabilities were trade creditors. The exposure to liquidity risk is based on the notion that the Institute will encounter difficulty in meeting its obligations associated with financial liabilities.

This was highly unlikely as the Institute is funded by contract research revenue and appropriated funding from the Australian Government. The Institute manages its budgeted funds to ensure it has adequate funds to meet payments as they fall due. In addition, the Institute has policies in place to ensure timely payments are made when due and has no past experience of default.

All non-derivative financial liabilities mature within one year (2010: one year). The Institute has no derivative financial liabilities in either the current or prior year.

Note 12G: Market risk

The Institute holds basic financial instruments that do not expose the Institute to certain market risks.

The Institute was not exposed to "Currency risk", "Interest rate risk" or "Other price risk".

Note 13: Appropriations

Notes:

1. Appropriations reduced under Appropriation Acts (No. 1, 3) 2009-10: Sections 10, 11 and 12 and under Appropriation Acts (No. 2, 4) 2009-10: Sections 12, 13 and 14. Departmental appropriations do not lapse at financial year-end. However, the responsible Minister may decide that part or all of a departmental appropriation is not required and request that the Finance Minister reduce that appropriation. The reduction in the appropriation is effected by the Finance Minister's determination and is disallowable by Parliament. In 2010, there was no reduction in departmental and non-operating departmental appropriations.
2. In 2009-10, there were no adjustments that met the recognition criteria of a formal addition or reduction in revenue (in accordance with FMO Div. 101) but at law the appropriations had not been amended before the end of the reporting period.
3. The variance is due to timing differences of receipt of funding and the appropriation applied.

Note 14: Special accounts

Note 15: Compensation and debt relief

Departmental

Note 16: Reporting of outcomes

Outcome 1 is described in Note 1.1. Net costs shown included intra-government costs that were eliminated in calculating the actual Budget Outcome.

Outcome 1 is described in Note 1.1. Net costs shown included intra-government costs that were eliminated in calculating the actual Budget Outcome.

Note 17: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the Institute

* As per the Statement of Comprehensive Income.

Appendix A: Other mandatory information

Occupational health and safety

The Institute is committed to providing and maintaining a safe and healthy workplace, and meeting its responsibilities under the Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth Employment) Act 1991. See Chapter 4: Management Accountability for the Institute's occupational health and safety policies, processes and performance.

Freedom of information

From 1 May 2011, agencies subject to the Freedom of Information Act 1982 ( FOI Act) are required to publish information to the public as part of the Information Publication Scheme (IPS). This requirement is in Part II of the FOI Act and has replaced the former requirement to publish a Section 8 statement in an annual report.

To fulfil these requirements, the Institute provides an Information Publication Plan on the Information Publication Scheme (IPS) web page that links to key published information about the Institute (see <www.aifs.gov.au/ips>). The AIFS website also contains a disclosure log that clearly identifies and provides access to any documents to which we give access in response to FOI requests.

No requests were made of the Institute this year for information under the Freedom of Information Act 1982.

With these recent changes, the Institute is now required to report on Section 8 of the Act, for the period of the 1 July 2010 until 30 April 2011 on:

• our organisation and functions (for more information, see Chapter 2: Agency Overview);
• any arrangements for outside participation in policy formation or administration;
• the categories of documents we hold; and
• our freedom of information procedures, facilities and contact details.

Outside participation

The Institute has established and maintains formal and informal contacts with a wide range of individuals and organisations for the purpose of obtaining and giving advice, collaborating on studies, exchanging information, seeking access to data and exploring options for the development of the Institute's work.

Specific avenues for outside participation include input by experts in design, seminars and steering groups of Institute studies, external review of Institute manuscripts prior to publication, visiting fellows, and Institute seminars and conferences.

Staff from the Institute's Library handle enquiries by phone, facsimile, email, letter or in person.

Categories of documents

The Institute maintains the following categories of documents:

• research data collected by survey interviews and questionnaires (this information is obtained from respondents on the understanding that their anonymity will be preserved and the information provided is confidential to the Institute, although datasets may be made available to external researchers when all identifying details are removed);
• documents relating to day-to-day internal administration and management, including personnel files, staff and management services, correspondence, finance and accounting documents, tenders, contracts and assets lists; and
• published and unpublished research reports.

Procedures for FOI requests

The procedure the Institute has in place for freedom of information requests is that the Institute's FOI Contact Officer assists applicants to identify the particular documents they seek. If a request is to be refused on grounds appearing in Section 15(2) or Section 24(1) of the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (insufficient information or unreasonable diversion of resources), applicants will be notified and given an opportunity for consultation. The officer authorised to deny access to documents is the Deputy Director (Corporate & Strategy), in consultation with the Director.

Contact details

FOI Contact Officer, Australian Institute of Family Studies, Level 20, 485 La Trobe Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Contact FOI Contact Officer, phone: 03 9214 7888, fax: 03 9214 7839.

Advertising and market research

The following table provides details of advertising and market research expenditure of $11,200 or greater (inclusive of GST), as required by Section 311A of the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918.

There were no payments made to advertising agencies, market research or polling organisations in relation to advertising. No advertising campaigns were undertaken.

Ecologically sustainable development and environmental performance

Institute management and staff are committed to the principles of ecologically sustainable development. In accordance with government guidelines, AIFS participated in Earth Hour during the year, although it is worth noting that it is Institute practice to always turn off non-essential lighting and appliances.

The Institute's operations have the following environmental impacts and Institute staff have taken the specified initiatives to minimise their impact:

• In 2010-11, electricity consumption within our tenancy (causing emissions to the air and use of resources) decreased by 9% compared to the previous period. The Institute continued to reinforce the practice of shutting down computers at the end of the day, encouraging staff to switch off lights when not needed and continued the removal of excess lighting.
• The Institute uses 20% wind power, thus reducing emissions and resource use.
• All office equipment conforms to environmental standards.
• Adverse effects due to transport (causing emissions to the air and use of resources) are primarily due to domestic airline flights. Staff are encouraged to use webinar, video and teleconference facilities where possible. Selected seminar presentations are made available electronically so that people do not have to travel to the Institute to hear them.
• Paper consumption (use of natural resources) is minimised by use of recycled paper and ensuring that printers default to using both sides of the paper. Paper use (number of printer/copier impressions) decreased by 15% compared to the previous period.
• Waste generation (resource waste and emissions to the air) is reduced by recycling paper, cardboard, glass, plastics and metals.
• Water consumption (use of natural resources) has been minimised by using water- saving facilities.

Disability reporting

Since 1994, Commonwealth departments and agencies have reported on their performance as policy adviser, purchaser, employer, regulator and provider under the Commonwealth Disability Strategy. In 2007-08, reporting on the employer role was transferred to the Australian Public Service Commission's State of the Service Report and the APS Statistical Bulletin. These reports are available from the Commission's website <www.apsc.gov.au>. From 2010-11, departments and agencies are no longer required to report on these functions.

The Commonwealth Disability Strategy has been overtaken by a new National Disability Strategy, which sets out a ten-year national policy framework for improving life for Australians with disability, their families and carers. A high-level report to track progress for people with disability at a national level will be produced by the Standing Council on Community, Housing and Disability Services to the Council of Australian Governments and will be available on the FaHCSIA website <www.fahcsia.gov.au>. The Social Inclusion Measurement and Reporting Strategy agreed by the Government in December 2009 will also include some reporting on disability matters in its regular How Australia is Faring report and, if appropriate, in strategic change indicators in agency Annual Reports. More detail on social inclusion matters can be found on the Social Inclusion website <www.socialinclusion.gov.au>.

Appendix B: Agency resource statements and expenses by outcomes

Agency resource statement 2010-11

1 Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2010-11. This may also include prior year departmental appropriation and S.31 relevant agency receipts.

2 Includes an amount of $0.230 m in 2010-11 for the Departmental Capital Budget. For accounting purposes this amount has been designated as "contributions by owners".

3 Appropriation Bill (No. 2) 2010-11 and Appropriation Bill (No. 4) 2010-11.

4 Does not include "Special Public Money" held in accounts like Other Trust Monies (OTM) accounts. Services for Other Government and Non-Agency Bodies (SOG) accounts, or Services for Other Entities and Trust Moneys Special (SOETM) accounts. 

Expenses and resources for Outcome 1, 2010-11

* Full year budget, including any subsequent adjustment made to the 2010-11 Budget.

Appendix D: Acronyms and abbreviations