This article about support for single mothers was last updated in 2025.
The single mother journey is often long and complex. For me, it's been a whirlwind of challenges, from managing finances to finding reliable child care. I’ve learned where to find support and how to make the most of what’s available. Let me share what I’ve discovered to make your journey a little less complicated.
This article will guide you through the maze of resources and support systems available so you can focus on what matters most: raising children. Whether you’re dealing with Centrelink benefits or seeking information and support, there’s help out there—you just need to know where to look.
I've compiled a list of services to assist with various aspects of support for single parents. These include:
- Accommodation assistance
- Family violence help
- Financial hardship resources
- Financial separation support
- Legal support
- Mental health resource spaces
- Social peer groups
- Parenting support
All support services we list are available Australia-wide, but it is certainly worth checking out services in your local area.
People who can help with accommodation
St Vincent De Paul Society
The St Vincent de Paul Society is a Catholic organisation that has been around for over 170 years helping people in need across Australia and in 153 countries around the world. If you are a homeless single parent with children, Vinnies will help you find temporary accommodation and support to find permanent accommodation.
They provide regular visits from a support worker to assess your situation, make plans for housing, health and school and provide emotional support. Among their many referrals include Centrelink, housing, childcare, and legal. You will be asked to contribute towards temporary housing rental depending on your income.
Website: St Vincent de Paul Society
Contact number: 13 18 12
The Salvation Army
Salvation Army Australia is the largest provider of homelessness and other free services in the country. Professional volunteers and donations make it possible for Salvos to provide free services, including accommodation, meals, case management, limited financial assistance, referrals and advocacy.
They have specific homelessness services for adults and families as well as families with children. Salvos has multiple locations across the country. It’s easy to find help online. Head to their website and enter your suburb or postcode to find a homelessness service near your area.
Website: Salvation Army
Contact number: 13 SALVOS (13 72 58)
Mission Australia
Mission Australia provides free assistance to people at risk of homelessness or experiencing homelessness. They provide homelessness and social housing services as well as support for disadvantaged families, children and youth, mental health/addiction, disability, and employment and skills training. Financial planning and legal assistance are also available. For accommodation services, contact your state-based information and referral services directly.
Website: Mission Australia
Contact number: See the complete list here.
Domestic violence support
Here are support groups for single parents affected by domestic violence.
1800RESPECT
1800RESPECT is the country’s 24/7 sexual assault and domestic violence counselling service for people experiencing or at risk of experiencing abuse. It also provides information for people who support those experiencing abuse. 1800RESPECT is a confidential service available round the clock. Specialists provide information on sexual assault, domestic violence and abuse and referrals to helpful contacts.
When you pick up the phone, what you say and how much you say is up to you. Counsellors will give assistance and referrals based on the information you provide.
Listen to this chat with 1800Respect on the Beanstalk Single Mums Podcast: Helping single mamas move forward after DV.
Website: 1800RESPECT
Contact number: 1800 737 732
Reachout
Reachout is a free self-help service dedicated to mental health and is great support for single mothers. It is the most accessed online mental health service for Aussie youths and their parents. Reachout is committed to helping people in an abusive relationship through online consultation and referrals. If you are a young person who doesn’t know what to do about your abusive relationship or where to get help, Reachout is for you.
While not a crisis service, Reachout lists emergency contacts on its website and directs users to their peer-support forums.
Website: Reachout
Contact number: 02 8029 7777
White Ribbon
White Ribbon Australia is an institution dedicated to ending gendered violence or violence against women and girls. The Australian chapter is part of a global advocacy movement that promotes gender equality. White Ribbon engages men and boys to become active in ending violence against women and children.
It is also a great place to find the latest studies and learn more about gendered violence. The website has in-depth, evidence-based research on violence against women and prevention strategies.
Website: White Ribbon Australia
Contact number: +61 8 6370 0600 (Corporate)
DV Connect
DV Connect is a 24-hour domestic violence crisis line for Queenslanders who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault. It is one of the five nonprofit partners working with 1800RESPECT. It is a brilliant support line for people who are more comfortable talking with someone of the same gender, as they provide separate crisis consultations for women (Womensline) and men (Mensline).
DV Connect also provides sexual assault advice through the Queensland Sexual Assault Helpline, trauma counselling via 1800RESPECT, and domestic and sexual violence education through Workplace Training. If you need temporary accommodation, DV Connect operates medium-term safe housing for women and children after leaving a shelter.
Website: DV Connect
Contact number: 1800 811 811
Organisations that offer financial support for single parents with low income
Australian Government services
When it comes to financial hardship support, there is a huge range of government services available to support single mothers. These include but are not limited to:
- Single parenting payment
- Family tax benefits
- Child care rebate
- Income support payment
You may be eligible for family tax benefits or any of the above. Check your eligibility via the Department of Human Services website (link below). For a more detailed explanation of what you could be eligible for see: What benefits am I entitled to as a single mama.
Understanding and registering for Child Support may also be an option. Know how it works here: The essential guide to child support for newly separated families.
Website: Department of Human Services, Child Support
Contact number: See individual website
DSS Grant Services directory
The Department of Social Services (DSS) provides critical services to families, children, seniors, and vulnerable people and communities. Current DSS grant programs are available for families and communities, housing and homelessness, and disability, mental health and carers. You can apply for a grant on the “Funding Open for Application” page.
To see a detailed list of all active grants and organisations providing services in your area, visit the DSS Grant Services Directory page. Immediate emergency relief services are available.
Website: DSS Grant Services Directory
Contact number: 1300 653 227
National Debt Helpline (NDH)
The NDH is a nonprofit service that assists people in financial trouble in handling debt and getting back on track. Free and confidential financial consultation is available Monday to Friday during business hours. Their consultants are all qualified professionals working in community agencies across the nation. If you prefer the self-help route, the website has e-learning materials about handling debt one step at a time. They even help out with complex issues like family violence, natural disasters and economic abuse.
Here's a chat with the NDH in the Beanstalk Podcast: Dealing with debt and getting your finances back on track.
Website: National Debt Helpline
Contact number: 1800 007 007
Food Bank
Australia’s largest food relief organisation served over 77 million meals in the last year alone. The Food Bank is a charity sector pantry, sourcing surplus food and groceries for people in need. The Food Bank is also involved in natural disaster relief, research, and advocacy.
While they don’t give food directly to individuals, you can get help by contacting food relief agencies in your area. You can also use the Ask Izzy website or visit the Foodbank website in your state to find links to local food aid services that serve families and individuals.
Website: Food Bank
Contact number: 02 9887 4144
Financial separation support
Moneysmart
Moneysmart is the government’s financial literacy website that helps Australians take control of their money. On the Moneysmart website, you’ll find free tools, tips, and guidance to get a grip on your situation if you feel stressed and overwhelmed by money problems.
If you are recently separated or divorced, make sure to visit their financial checklist page to help you organise finances after a breakup.
Here's a chat with MoneySmart on the Beanstalk Podcast: Single mum budgeting – Why, how and the tools to use.
Website: Moneysmart
Contact number: 1300 300 630 (ASIC contact centre)
Divide Financial Separation
It is a common misconception that you need to engage lawyers for your financial separation. But there is another way!
Divide are specialised Chartered Accountants offering solution-driven advice, tailored to each individual financial separation. Their mission is to find the very best and most cost-effective outcome for both parties in a non-aggressive space, without using lawyers.
Website: Divide – Simple Financial Separation
Contact number: 07 3367 5380 (Book a free chat)
Family Court of Australia website
The Family Court of Australia website is an excellent place to start for many single parents going through a divorce or separation and need legal advice. Their website is packed with information about family law, forms, fees and links to helpful contacts.
If you are recently separated or divorced, check out their page on property and finances after separation. It covers the various ways assets and debts are divided after a breakup, and how a court decides the division and time limits for application for property adjustment.
Website: Family Court of Australia
Contact number: 1300 352 000 (except WA)
Legal services and mediation support
Relationships Australia
Relationships Australia is a group of agencies providing family relationship services across the country. Their services include family and relationship courses and professional training and development.
If you are having relationship difficulties, are recently separated or divorced, starting a new relationship or simply want to make your relationships stronger, free courses are available on relationship skills, family violence, separation and more. Visit their website or call the agency to find out about courses and services near you.
Here's a chat with Relationships Australia on the Beanstalk Podcast: Your step-by-step guide to mediation.
Website: Relationships Australia
Contact number: 1300 364 277
Legal Aid
This agency helps financially disadvantaged Australians with criminal, family and civil law issues. Their services cover property, family dispute resolution, child support/maintenance disputes and spousal maintenance disputes. Grants are made possible with funding from the Australian government.
As much as possible, the agency focuses on non-litigious dispute resolution and advice. They also prioritise grant aid for high-risk children or spouses. If you are in the middle of a high-conflict separation (or any family, civil or criminal difficulty) and can’t afford a lawyer, contact them to find out what options are available to you.
Website: Legal Aid
Contact number: 1300 65 11 88
Mental health resource spaces
Lifeline
Lifeline is a 24-hour crisis hotline that provides short-term support for people feeling overwhelmed and having trouble coping and staying safe. This is the number to call for people in their darkest hours and for those who are worried about their loved ones experiencing emotional distress.
A trained Lifeline supporter gives confidential one-on-one support to people who call. They provide a safe space and listen without judgment so you can freely discuss your concerns. Many people need long-term support, and they will work with you to explore options like connecting you with counsellors, medical and legal professionals, law enforcement and other agencies that can help.
Here's a chat with Lifeline on the Beanstalk Podcast: Feeling down as a single parent? There is help out there.
Website: Lifeline
Contact number: 131114
Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue is a nonprofit dedicated to providing mental health support and services to people affected by anxiety, depression and suicide. According to their website, they are the most visited mental health organisation in the country. Beyond Blue operates a 24-hour advice and support line focused specifically on mental health issues.
Information is organised by demographic to make it easy to find what you need whether you are a single parent, teenager, LGBTI or older adult.
Website: Beyond Blue
Contact number: 1300 22 4636
Further reading: Asking for help as a single mum.
Black Dog Institute
The Black Dog Institute is a nonprofit research institute focused on mental health and well-being for all ages. They provide tools and apps, clinical services, education programs, research studies and other services to improve mental health for everyone.
While Black Dog is not a crisis centre, their website is a great place to start if you want to keep up with the latest research in the mental health space, from mood disorder treatments to suicide prevention strategies. They also connect you with communities around the country and provide clinical referrals if you need long-term support for depression, anxiety, mood disorders and other mental health issues.
Website: Black Dog Institute
Contact number: (02) 9382 2991 (clinic)
Single Mama Way
Single Mama Way understands that mental and emotional well-being is at the heart of thriving as a single mama. Our support is designed to empower you with practical tools and personalised counselling.
Single Mama Way provides one-on-one counselling and coaching sessions tailored to your unique challenges, helping you rebuild confidence, manage stress, and embrace your strengths. Whether you’re navigating the emotional toll of separation, juggling household chores, or facing financial pressures, we’re here to offer uplifting and actionable guidance.
Through our programs like Reset & Empower, we create a safe and nurturing space for single mummies to process their emotions, explore resilience strategies, and set achievable personal goals. You’ll also find valuable resources like eBooks and eCourses, all crafted to build your emotional toolkit and inspire a brighter outlook.
Website: www.singlemamaway.com
Social Support Groups for single mothers
Single mum vine
The Single Mum Vine is a closed Facebook group entirely different from all other single mama spaces. It is an offshoot of this website you are on. We focus on the GOOD parts about being single mummies and post to inspire and make others laugh and feel good about themselves.
If you are a single mummy looking for inspiration, friendship and empowerment from like-minded women, this is the perfect social media support space for you.
Website: Single Mum Vine
Contact number: NA
Meetup
Meetup is a place to meet like-minded people and get or receive support, whether you are a single mummy who feels isolated or someone who likes to join local events for the things you love. Meet people in your area for playdates, working out, exploring, talking shop—the list is endless. You can also create a group of your own.
It’s easy to sign up. Choose what you are into, search by city to find an event or group near you, and join. Note that many people are still confined to their homes due to COVID, so you may want to check out online meetups if you can’t get out of the house. Regular social interaction, even if it's online, can do wonders for your mental health.
Website: Meetup
Contact number: Follow on social media to connect.
Parenting Support
Positive Parenting Program (TRIPLE P)
The Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) is a national program helping parents raise happy kids and build better relationships through positive strategies. Triple P is the largest evidence-based parenting program and is proven to work for families regardless of culture or situation. Contact your local child health centre to join a Triple P group or arrange for face-to-face support.
The Triple P online course (free in QLD) is recommended for parents of toddlers to tweens. It has everything you need to raise confident, successful kids, including child-rearing techniques for all kinds of situations. The course consists of videos, worksheets, activities, podcasts and other online learning resources.
Listen to this chat with Triple P on the Beanstalk Podcast: How to raise happy, resilient, confident children.
Website: Triple P
Contact number: 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)
Parentline
Parentline is a service for anyone who needs help with a parenting issue or just someone to talk to. Parentline offers free consultation and support for parents, grandparents and carers living in Queensland and the Northern Territory. They help parents of children of all ages, with a focus on parents of children ages 0 to 8.
Parentline is open seven days a week from 8 am to 10 pm. People who call are connected with a consultant right away. If the line is busy, you can leave a short message and your phone number so they can return your call. You can ask to speak with the same specialist and even choose the gender of the advisor you want to speak to.
Website: Parentline
Contact number: 1300 30 1300
Key Takeaways
Being a single parent is no easy feat, but resources and support systems are available to lighten the load. From financial support like payments to child care benefits and legal services, there’s help for every challenge.
Remember, you’re not alone. Agencies and communities are here to provide guidance, information, and financial aid. Whether you’re coping with domestic violence or simply need advice, getting support is the first step. Never feel embarrassed to ask for support along the way because you are totally and utterly justified in reaching for them.
Through these resources, you’ll discover a community of support and practical tools to make your journey smooth sailing. You’ve got this, single mummas!
