Family Group Conferencing is a process that invites families to come together so that they as a family can develop solutions that will keep their family safe. According to research Family Group Conferencing is the most effective family support process that is currently available within the social care system in the United Kingdom. In Australia it is increasingly being used in the early intervention programs together with permanency encouraging relationships and nurturing connections, not Court orders.

This course will provide you with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge underpinning the model so that you can confidentially facilitate a family group conference. It is presented in a blended delivery format, with some modules required to be completed prior to attending the workshop through either face to face or virtually over two days.

The course also includes assessment against the units of competency:
• CHCMED001 Prepare for mediation.
• CHCMED002 Facilitate mediation.
• CHCMED003 Consolidate and conclude mediation.
• CHCCCS020 Respond effectively to behaviours of concern.

Some assessment will be conducted in the pre-workshop package and the workshop. There will be the need to complete further assessment tasks after the workshop. This will include a simulated family group conference, which will require you to video your facilitation of a conference.

Trained Family Group Conference facilitators can apply to be part of an approved panel of facilitators which is managed by the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ). This course has been given approval by DCJ as meeting the required qualification in mediation. However other factors are also considered in the application process for this panel and the decision is made by DCJ. ACWA does not guarantee that completion of this course will lead to your placement on the approved panel.

Who should attend?
Child welfare practitioners, supervisors, managers, and administration in the public and private sectors.
Parents and parent partners who are involved in peer work – parents helping parents.