Who We Are

Stepfamilies today are becoming a prominent part of Australian family life. It is currently estimated that one in five Australian families is a stepfamily. All families need information, education and support. While resources for biological families are available in the community, services often fail to address the unique differences associated with stepfamilies.

These differences include:

  • Stepfamilies are born of loss.
  • Family members have different histories and expectations.
  • Children may be members of two homes
  • Child support obligations and parenting arrangements often strain the new relationships.

Stepfamilies are more complex. Where biological families have family trees, stepfamilies have family forests.

Stepfamilies Ausralia is committed to strengthening stepfamilies. Our vision is to inspire a society that recognises, values and supports stepfamilies equally with other family forms to achieve their highest potential.

We are a non-profit organisation offering support, education, and resources to stepfamilies. We provide assistance to families where one or both partners come together with children from an earlier relationship. These families may be either thinking about forming or already living in a married or unmarried stepfamily situation.

Stepfamilies Australia works for social inclusion of stepfamilies by
  • Developing better community recognition, understanding and acceptance of stepfamilies
  • Strengthening stepfamilies to reduce the higher rates of stepfamily breakdown and youth homelessness
  • Working with the service delivery sector and government to build capacity to strengthen stepfamilies
Stepfamilies Australia works as a catalyst, adding value to the family relationships sector. The innovative work of its members takes a lead to break through myths and sends a message to the community that stepfamilies are complex and hard work, but also achievable, with support.