The Intensive Family Preservation Program (IFPP) is a voluntary, outreach‑based service designed to support families whose children are at risk of entering statutory care. Established in 2018 in partnership with Child Safety Services, the program aims to strengthen family capacity, increase safety in the home, and help children remain safely with their families whenever possible.
Grounded in the Children, Young Persons and Their Families Act 1997 and aligned with the Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy, IFPP focuses on the wellbeing domains that matter most for children; being loved and safe, having their basic needs met, staying healthy, learning, participating, and developing a strong sense of identity.
Families are supported through intensive, tailored outreach, with case workers visiting several times each week over usually a 3-month period. The program uses a trauma-informed, evidence-based approach, recognising the complex and often intergenerational challenges that many families face.
Support is flexible and centred on each family’s unique goals, routines, and strengths. Case workers collaborate closely with Child Safety Officers, ensuring families receive consistent guidance and a coordinated approach.
The IFPP team works alongside families to:
Depending on a family’s needs, support may include in‑home assistance with morning or evening routines, therapeutic work with children, parenting education, referrals to specialised programs, and help navigating services.
IFPP is available to families in the Southern region of Tasmania who are currently engaged with Child Safety Services. Referrals to the program are made directly by Child Safety Services.
If you would like to know more about the Intensive Family Preservation Program, please contact the Family Programs Practice Leader at CatholicCare on:
1800 819 447
(03) 6278 1660 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm)
family.programs@aohtas.org.au
