Start here: a single access point for many services

The Strong Families, Safe Kids Advice and Referral Line (ARL) is identified in an audit as the primary point of access for services that support the safety and wellbeing of children and young people. The audit examined whether the ARL had been implemented effectively and drew evidence from multiple Tasmanian agencies. If you are seeking family support in Hobart, expect the ARL to be part of initial pathways and information sharing between agencies.

Hobart City Mission: in-home and targeted family programs

Hobart City Mission operates a suite of family support programs for southern Tasmania. Core offerings include in-home Integrated Family Support Services (IFSS) for eligible families with children up to 18 years, plus targeted programs that support young parents, fathers at risk of homelessness, and other family needs. IFSS can work with families before a child is born and aims to coordinate safety and development plans in collaboration with parents.

Practical check: IFSS and other HCM programs are for eligible families. Contact the service to confirm eligibility before expecting in-home support.

Relationships Australia: counselling, mediation and child-inclusive programs

Relationships Australia Tasmania provides a broad range of services across the state, both in person and online. The organisation lists counselling after separation, child-inclusive mediation, family dispute resolution, programs for parenting separately, support for young people at risk, grief and loss counselling, and family violence support among its offerings. Some of these services are delivered as free programs, others as paid services; the organisation operates statewide so Hobart residents can usually access a local office or telehealth appointment.

Practical check: verify whether a specific program is free or fee-based and whether a telehealth option is available for your situation.

Family law counselling and fees: CatholicCare Tasmania

CatholicCare Tasmania provides family law counselling across the state, with local offices including Hobart and telehealth appointments. The service supports individuals, couples and families navigating separation, parenting arrangements and related wellbeing concerns.

Practical check: this counselling service operates as a universal program and charges session fees for some appointments; concession rates are available. Confirm cost, availability and whether you qualify for concession or telehealth before booking.

How access, conditions and suitability are managed

  • Primary referral pathway: the ARL functions as a single point of access for many family and child wellbeing services, and audit material shows its role is central when agencies coordinate support. This means a phone or intake referral to the ARL may be the first step for services delivered by government or funded providers.
  • Eligibility and suitability: several local programs are targeted. IFSS, for example, prioritises families assessed as eligible and may work with unborn children and families with children up to 18 years. Other programs target specific cohorts, such as young parents, fathers at risk of homelessness, or children affected by family violence. Always check eligibility criteria before travelling to or expecting in-home services.
  • Delivery modes: many providers offer both in-person and online options. Telehealth is commonly used for counselling and some casework, which may be useful if attending a Hobart office is difficult.

Practical steps before you call or travel to an appointment

  • Decide what you need: emergency safety help differs from counselling or in-home support. Clarify whether you are seeking safety assessment, counselling, mediation, or practical supports such as housing assistance.
  • Confirm eligibility and fees: some programs require eligibility checks and some charge fees with concession options. Ask for confirmation of cost and whether concession or subsidised places are available.
  • Call early for high-demand services: one Hobart provider advises contacting them first thing in the morning because demand can be high. If you are referred via the ARL, ask how long wait times might be and whether interim supports are available.
  • Ask about telehealth and location: if travel or childcare is a barrier, check whether the service provides phone or video appointments and whether a Hobart office is available for face-to-face sessions.
  • Bring documentation if asked: caseworkers may request identity, cards that show concession status, or other information to process eligibility. Confirm what is needed before you attend.

What the audit means for your planning

The independent audit into the ARL focused on whether the service was implemented effectively as the primary access point. This indicates ongoing oversight of access pathways and that multiple agencies are part of how services are offered. When planning access, expect coordination between agencies and ask how referrals will be shared and managed.

Quick decisions to make before contacting services

  • Are you calling about immediate safety or ongoing support? Different pathways apply.
  • Do you need a concession or telehealth appointment? Ask up front.
  • Will home visits be required? Confirm eligibility and consent for in-home work.

Use the recommended contact numbers below to check current availability, fees and eligibility before you travel to an office in Hobart. Calling first can save time and ensure you arrive prepared for the service you need.