02/01/2026
Evaluation of Family and Relationship Services and Specialised Family Violence Family & Relationship Services Australia
RelateWell welcomes the Commonwealth Department of Social Services' independent commissioned report by Allen & Clarke Consulting, Evaluation of Family and Relationship Services (FaRS) and Specialised Family Violence Services (SFVS), which reaffirms the two distinct programs' strong evidence-based efficiency, effectiveness and value, in delivering outcomes to families and children.
As a provider of FaRS for decades, RelateWell also contributed to the Department's consultation process into a new approach to programs for families and children, arguing that FaRS providers bring decades of accumulated knowledge and practice, forming a strong evidence base for their work. This deep history informs a wide range of intervention and prevention services designed to strengthen family relationships, prevent breakdown, and support the wellbeing and safety of children. Through broad‑based counselling, education, and tailored support, these services help families build resilience, navigate challenges, and thrive.
Contrary to the Department’s objective of moving to an open and competitive tender process, RelateWell has argued for the continuation of funding to existing FaRS providers. Our long‑standing partnerships with key community gatekeepers cannot simply be replicated by organisations with strong grant‑writing capacity but without established local trust or relationships.
Despite the Department’s claim that it has listened to the sector, no other government has questioned the competency or capability of FaRS providers in delivering high‑quality services to families and children. FaRS organisations have been funded for decades, a fact reinforced by the Department’s own recent report, and by the hundreds of individuals who continue to seek out our services. Families turn to us because we are trusted, respected, and embedded in the communities we serve.
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