How many serious incidents are happening in Australian childcare centres?

We don’t really know. Even though the national childcare quality authority reports on the number of “serious incidents” in childcare services, reports Erin Harper. This week, a Melbourne childcare worker was charged over the alleged sexual abuse of young children in his care. Families are justifiably appalled and furious, with 1,200 children urged to be...

EDITOR’S PICKS

The Comparison Trap: Why No Parent Has It Easier Than You Think
Sometimes it’s best not to inject yourself into someone else’s experience of parenting, writes Megan Blandford. “You’re So Lucky”: When Parental Jealousy Creeps In “My daughter threw her first tantrum the other day.” I looked over, stunned. “Her first tantrum? At the age of two?...
Editor
10 July, 2025
What’s on at the Cinema these July 2025 School Holidays
Looking for some movies for the days when holidays become too much and a little quiet time is required? Elio (Disney Pixar) Rated PG Mild themes, animated violence Running time: 1h 39m Elio, an underdog with an active imagination, finds himself inadvertently beamed up to the...
Editor
03 July, 2025
🌦️ School Holiday Survival Guide: Fun Ideas to Keep Kids Busy These Winter Holidays
School holidays are here—and while the promise of slower mornings and no lunchboxes is sweet, keeping kids entertained (and screen time under control!) can be a challenge, especially if the weather turns grey. Whether you’re staying local or just looking to make the most of...
Editor
02 July, 2025
When Did You Last Wash That? The Surprising Truth About Our Most-Used Household Items
From bedding to bags, these are the hygiene habits many Aussies forget You might be diligent about tossing your clothes in the wash, but what about your reusable shopping bags, couch throws, or pet beds? A new guide has revealed how often everyday household items...
Editor
26 June, 2025
Keeping Calm in Year 12: A Parent’s Guide to Surviving the Final School Year
As children approach their final year of school, keeping a sense of perspective can be useful for students and over-eager parents alike, writes Elizabeth Quinn. Navigating Year 12: Why Parents Need Perspective Too Year 12 can be a trying time for both students and their...
Editor
19 June, 2025
Who Gets the Dog? What New Separation Laws Mean for Families Who have ‘fur babies’
New pet custody rules, stronger financial protections and easier divorces – what Australia’s 2025 family law reforms mean for parents and pet lovers. A major shift in Australia’s family law could affect everything from your finances to who gets to keep the family dog. If...
Editor
12 June, 2025

Celebrating Mothers

The Comparison Trap: Why No Parent Has It Easier Than You Think
Sometimes it’s best not to inject yourself into someone else’s experience of parenting, writes Megan Blandford. “You’re So Lucky”: When Parental Jealousy Creeps In “My daughter threw her first tantrum the other day.” I looked over, stunned. “Her first tantrum? At the age of two?...
Editor
10 July, 2025
Book Review: The Fourth Trimester by Amelia Lamont
Navigating the first few months after giving birth can be overwhelming, but The Fourth Trimester by Amelia Lamont, offers new parents a much-needed blend of practical advice and heartfelt reassurance, writes Victoria Baker. Amelia Lamont’s The Fourth Trimester is a realistic, informative and compassionate guide to the...
Editor
04 July, 2025
When Mark Became Chloe: The Surprise That Redefined My Birth Story
Chryss Cada’s dreams end up being a little more accurate than science. When birth plans meet real life Childbirth instructors suggest you write up a ‘birth plan’ – but they should call it a ‘birth best guess’. About a month before I was due to...
Editor
26 June, 2025
Thinking about using donated eggs to start a family? Here’s what you need to know.
In Australia, the donor egg industry is heavily regulated, but in countries like the US, it can feel more like online shopping. Here’s what you need to know, report Anna E. Hartman and Dr Erica Coslor Starting a family is an exciting and scary decision...
Editor
26 June, 2025