25 Sep Why Families Need a Village – and Why Many Are Missing Out
The 2025 Uniting Families Report shows housing stress, money worries, and care responsibilities are cutting too many parents off from the community support every child deserves.
Why a Village Matters
We’ve all heard the saying “it takes a village to raise a child”—but for many Australian families, that village is slipping out of reach. The newly released 2025 Uniting Families Report highlights how community networks, shared spaces and strong connections remain vital to raising children. Yet too many families are missing out because of unstable housing, financial stress, and the challenges of caring for children with complex needs.
The Struggles Parents Face
The report paints a clear picture:
- Families under financial pressure are far less likely to take part in community life.
- Parents with heavy care responsibilities see friends and relatives less often.
- Sole parents and blended families are more likely to feel isolated.
- Renting families are less connected to their neighbourhoods than homeowners.
This lack of connection leaves many parents feeling alone when they most need support.
What Families Value
Despite the obstacles, families remain committed to building community. They don’t just want to receive support—they want to give it too, and to pass down culture, values and belonging to their children. As one parent explained through the research, the “village” isn’t a transaction; it’s a living network of care.
A Call to Action
The report urges governments and service providers to act now. Families are asking for:
- More services that connect parents to local networks, not just crisis help.
- Long-term investment in community hubs like libraries, parks and family centres.
- Action on housing to ensure stability and belonging.
- Ongoing funding that allows services to build real, lasting relationships.
Uniting NSW-ACT CEO Tracey Burton summed it up: “Stable housing, adequate income and the right services don’t just keep families afloat; they allow relationships to grow, and children to be raised with confidence and care.”
For parents, the message is clear: raising children is easier, healthier and happier when the village is strong. But to make that happen, Australia must invest in the communities that hold families together.
Feeling cut off from your own “village”? Discover five simple ways to build support for your family, even if friends and relatives aren’t nearby. Read more
