Accommodation

"I'll be right mate, I'll just doss in the back of the Ute."

ACCOMMODATION

Blokes are often faced with the hassle of finding emergency accommodation and housing. The services listed below will assist men with accommodation:

Cardinal Freeman Centre St Vincent de Paul Society 9637 6398 34-38 East Street, Granville Part of the Parramatta Homeless Men's Coalition Homeless service for men who have completed detox & rehab $14.00 per night No drugs

Department of Housing 8 Patrick Street, Blacktown 9831 0891 6 Dawson Mall, Mount Druitt 9675 8987 The Department of Housing provides: Temporary Accommodation for homeless people, and Rentstart which is assistance in the form of bond and advance rent for people renting privately Participants need to provide proof of income, identification and their current bank statement.

Hope Hostel 9683 1630 Fleet Street, Parramatta 2150 Crisis accommodation, shared room, incl. bed and meals @ $12/night.

Marist Youth Care SAAP Accommodation 9625 0898 PO Box 247, Mount Druitt 2770 Provide short and medium term accommodation to young men aged 15 to 18 years old who are homeless. This service also supports young women.

Nepean Caravan Park 4735 4425 Mackellar Street, Emu Plains 2750

Tenants Hotline 9251 6590 Telephone tenancy advice state wide. Mon-Fri, 9:30am to 1:00pm, 2:00pm to 5:00pm.

Wanbinga 9622 1213 or 9671 2679 Doonside Provide short term and crisis accommodation to young men aged 15 to 17 years who are homeless.

Wentworth Area Community Housing Ltd 4731-5851 Level 2, 148 Henry Street, Penrith 2750 Provide medium to long term housing for low income earners. Waiting list exists.

Western Sydney Tenants Service (WESTS) 9891-6377 44 Station Street East, Harris Park 2150 Provide advice and advocacy services to both public and private tenants. WESTS promotes self advocacy and can assist tenants with letter writing, their negotiations with landlords, or Tribunal cases. Assist with writing letters to the tribunal.

Youth Accommodation Emergency Line 9318 1531 or 1800 424 830 Phone information on places with vacancies. For young people 12-18 years old.

2 "Things were pretty bad when we went through Family Support, they helped us with the practical hassles and the other stuff that was the problem." Grant, 32

BEING A DAD

Some people today question or even dismiss the role of fathering. Being a dad is hard and can be problematic. Some roles, values and expectations about being a dad are certainly changing. That can be confusing and a bit scary. However, dads are as important and precious to kids as mums, in the enjoyment and nurturing of girls and boys into adulthood. There are exciting opportunities for dads (single and partnered) to create sound foundations with our kids that will enhance good shared futures. The following services provide a range of support for dads who care about being 'dad'.

After Hours Family Crisis Service 9622 0313, 9622 0522 PO Box 493, Blacktown 2148 After hours family crisis service. Phone and face-to-face counselling. Provide information, referrals and support for domestic violence victims.

Anglicare ‘Fathers and their Children’ Program 8805 0922, 8805 0931 20 Westminster Street, Rooty Hill 2766 A service supporting fathers building strong foundations with their children. For solo dads, dads with contact arrangements and partnered dads alike. Activities for fathers include: Fathers play groups; Fortnightly evening fathers’ group; One-on-one support and guidance; Parenting workshops eg 1,2,3, Magic (Disciplining Children); Anger, conflict and violence management workshops; Occasional fun-days, outings, etc.; and Advocacy and also referrals for related counselling, relief and other support within and beyond Anglicare.

Child Abuse Prevention Service – CAPS 9716 8000, 1800 688 009 24 hour crisis counselling & support for those who are afraid they might abuse their children.

Child and Parent Stress Centre 9716 8000 24 hour telephone counselling.

DOCS - Helpline 132 111 (General Public) A statewide service which takes reports of concerns in situations where a child, or children, is/are being abused or neglected, or there is a risk of abuse or neglect. Child abuse can be physical, sexual or psychological. Operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and all year; This service does not provide counselling.

Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit 9374 3023 Monday to Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm Outside of these hours contact 1800 227 772 Level 6, 299 Elizabeth Street, Sydney 2000 This service provides counselling to family and friends of missing people, both at the time the person first goes missing and for families of longer term missing. It can also provide information on tracing agencies and legal issues. Support can be provided both face to face or on the telephone. The service is free and confidential.

Fathers After Divorce 9519 7988 11 Trade Street, Newtown 2042 www.fathersafterdivorce.com Divorce coaching, mediation programs for separated fathers.

Family Relief Occasional Childcare 9628 4171 (Fax) 9628 4313 Child care for children aged 0-5 years Multicultural program Pre-school program Healthy Eating Program Child development referrals Special needs program Lunch provided.

Interrelate Men’s Service 9680 4386 9745 5544 14/6 Castle Hill Road 55 George Street Castle Hill 2154 Burwood 2134 Specific programs and referrals for men and fathers. Male specific counselling. Group programs for dads. Group programs for step dads.

Hillsong Emerge LTD 9678 7900 (Fax) 9679 8900 Suit 1, 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 [email protected] Personal development courses (these are 6 to 13 week programs, fees range from $35.00 to $85.00 per program: Marriage enrichment. Divorce Care. Search for intimacy. Search for life. Grief Share. Counselling Service (please call the office administrator to discuss fee variations). Singles again community Group. Hillsong Men’s Conference.

Karitane 9794 1852, 9794 1800 Corner Horsley and Mitchell Street, Carramar 2163 Provides 24 hour help lines for parents of children under 5 years.

Kids Help Line 1800 551 800 A 24 hour, 7 days a week telephone service which children & young people can call themselves - to discuss any issue concerning them. Callers can choose whether they speak with a man or a woman counsellor. WEB Counselling 3.00pm to 9.00pm, Monday to Friday www.kidshelp.com.au Email counselling available.

MENDS Now 130 363361, 9427 9128 20 Upper Cliff Rd, Northwood 2066 12 week program for separated/divorced men to address acute needs during the trauma of the end of a significant relationship. Information on legal rights and responsibilities, assist getting fair property and parenting agreements. Programs offered in several centres.

Mensline Australia 1300 789 978 (local call cost) Professional and confidential short term telephone counselling. Direct telephone linkage to services if you are in distress. Relevant information about services and support programs in your area. Practical support and life strategies for managing difficult situations.

5 Parents as Teachers 9832 0543 (Fax) 9832 0543 [email protected] Madang Avenue Primary School, Whalan A free early learning program for (0-3 years) for families, provided by the Department of Education and training. Home Visits focusing on child development. Information sessions. Playgroup

Parent Line 132 055 Professional telephone counselling on general parenting issues for parents with kids aged 0-18 years. Information & referral. 9:00am - 4:30pm Monday to Saturday. Bilingual counsellors available.

Parents Without Partners 9853 3269 Fax; 9853 3262 Building T2A, Nirimba Education Precinct, Quakers Hill 2763 PO Box 300, Quakers Hill 2763 [email protected] Self help. Family and parents social support All ages. Help lone parents and their children make friends with others in the same situation.

Tresillian Wentworth 9787 0855 1B Barber Avenue, Kingswood 2747 Parent Help Line 24 Hour Number: 9787 5255 or 1800 637 357

Swinson Cottage Family Centre Inc. 9621 5424 26 Swinson Road, Blacktown 2148 Child Protection Service providing support to families with at least one child in the 0-5 age range, who have had a substantial issue concerning the physical, emotional, psychological abuse, neglect or sexual assault of a child. Counselling, Group Work, Playgroup, Support and Advocacy and free transport.

UnitingCare Burnside NEWPIN Father’s Centre 9835 1644 18 Oreades Way, Bidwill 2770 Assists fathers with children under 5 years to strengthen their family relationships. Is a centre based parenting support program for fathers in the Blacktown Local government area. Provides day and evening groups that focuses on parenting skills, conflict resolution and family relationships.

6 UnitingCare Burnside - Father Support Service 9806 0200 126 Marsden Street, Parramatta 2150 A service in Western Sydney aimed at supporting fathers in developing and maintaining their valuable family / child relationships. Telephone support and referral plus access to a wide range of groups and workshops. Groups available: “ Hey Dad” Fathering Group for Separated Fathers. Separated Fathers Support Group. Supporting Family Relationships. Information workshops for Separated Fathers.

UnitingCare Unifam Counselling and Mediation 4732 3836 2 Warwick Street Penrith NSW 2751 Counselling: Individual counselling for personal issues Couple counselling, whether for maintenance / enhancement or separation issues Family Counselling. Family Law support Services. These programs include services for families post separation, in relation to the division of property and the making of parenting plans: Mediation Conciliation Child inclusive practice

Woodriff Cottage - Family Skills Training Program 4731 6744 56 Woodriff Street, Penrith 2750 Parenting classes. Groups for parents with ADHD kids. Father’s program. Group for mum’s & kids from D.V. Children’s relationship group. Childcare available. Primary aged children only. Fee negotiable.

My Dad Insert

Child Support

When you and your partner separate and you have children from the relationship, you are likely to become a client of the Child Support Agency (CSA). CSA is the Government agency responsible for assessing and collecting child support (formerly called maintenance).

The first thing you need to understand is that CSA is not on your ex-partner’s side, nor is it on your side. The agency just applies the law for both of you. Regardless of whether parents live together or not, both are responsible for financially supporting their children. It is CSA’s job to ensure children get that support.

If you and your ex separated before 1 October 1989 and your children were born before then, you must ask the Family Court to order how much child support is to be paid. If any of your children were born on or after 1 October 1989 or you separated after that date, CSA will assess how much should be paid.

Assessments are worked out using a basic formula. It takes into account each parent’s income, their living expenses, the number of children and the children’s living arrangements.

In some cases an assessment won’t be suitable. If you have special circumstances that affect your ability to pay child support you can lodge an application with CSA to have the assessment changed. Details are on CSA’s web site www.csa.gov.au.

Alternatively, if you and your ex agree on an amount you can register a child support agreement. This can be used to set out different ways of how child support can be used. For example, an agreement can be used to recognise payment of school fees, medical or dental costs or mortgage payments.

If you are the resident parent (that is, you have the children with you most of the time) and receive only the base rate of Family Tax Benefit or do not receive a benefit, you do not have to apply for a child support assessment. You can make your own arrangements for the support of your children. If you receive more than the base rate of Family Tax Benefit, the Family Assistance Office will require you to apply for an assessment.

CSA encourages parents to make their own arrangements for paying child support because it offers parents more flexibility. This method is not always successful, which is where CSA can step in and collect on behalf of the payee.

Child support is payable until a child turns 18. If a child turns 18 and is still in full-time secondary education, parents can apply for an extension of child support until the end of the school year.

It is important to let CSA know of any changes in yours or your children’s lives such as a change of address or changes in your employment. In most cases these changes can be done over the phone. This helps ensure that CSA is using the most up-to-date information for you.

It is also important to note that CSA is not responsible for ensuring you have access, or contact as it is now called, with your children. You should contact the Family Court for more information about contact.

To obtain copies of any CSA forms or publications, you can visit the CSA website at www.csa.gov.au.

Contacting the Child Support Agency: General Enquiries 131 272 Change of Assessment 131 141 Complaints 132 919 Translating and Interpreting Service 131 450 TTY 1800 631 187 Web site www.csa.gov.au

10 "Look, I always looked in here and thought it was a blokefree zone, but once I got over the initial hesitation of going through the front door, I found heaps of information I wanted, and found them good for a cuppa and good advice." Mullet, 55

COMMUNITY GROUPS

The following local services are a good starting point for blokes looking for help.

Anglicare – Anglican Welfare Services, Outer West Regional Office 9832 2300 20 Westminster Street, Rooty Hill 2766 Family support. Food parcels and vouchers. Home visits. Play groups. Parenting courses. Respite services. Disability services. Vacation programs. Advocacy. Welfare services. Peer support program. Fathers & their children (a support service to assist fathers in building strong foundations with their children as they live in a changing world).

Blacktown Migrant Resource Centre 9621 6633 Fax: 9831 5625 Level 2, 125 Main St, Blacktown 2148 Case work, information and referral services to individuals / groups on settlement issues, multicultural information and government services and programs. Provide meeting rooms and support for educational, cultural and community groups or activities. Supply Community Aged Care Packages. Provide bilingual ethno specific casework service. Provide Free immigration, tax and legal advice. English conversation classes. Assist skilled migrant in further education, training and employment opportunities. Programs for youth from refugee and emerging communities. Provide training to small community groups and organisations regarding capacity building. Families First. - Assistance to families with children from 0 to 8 years old. Programs for Young People.

Dean Park Neighbourhood Centre 9626 5128 9 Yarramundi Drive, Dean Park 2761 Services provided Monday, Wednesday and Friday – 9.30 to 4.00pm. Information, advocacy and referral service. Community Development. School holiday activities. Community hall hire. Community Access – computer, printer, laminating machine. Resource library for residents and community groups. Justice of peace service.

Graceades Community Cottage 9628 2045 43-44 Gracillis Way, Bidwill 2770 Educational and recreational programs for children and adults.

Holy Family Education Centre 9628 7272 254 Luxford Road, Emerton 2770 Gamblers Anon. Alcoholics Anon. Holiday program for families. Department of Housing Indigenous Outreach – Thursdays 9:30am till 12:00 noon Community Food Market – Mondays and Thursdays 9:30am till 2:00pm.

Marayong House Neighbourhood Centre 9626 5312 64 Falmouth Road, Marayong 2148 Counselling and referral Service (by Appointment) face to face. Youth group. Aerobics. Craft activities. Senior citizens group. Before and after school care + vacation care. Playgroup.

Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency (MECA) 9625 9300 Burran Close, Mount Druitt 2770 Welfare information and casework for migrants.

Rutherglen Community Centre 9835 1583 24 Anderson Avenue, Blackett 2770 Care and support. Counselling and lifestyle programs. Information and referral service. Men's Group. Monday to Friday.

12 Shalvey Community Centre 9628 4313 7 Rosewall Place, Shalvey 2770 [email protected] Educational courses/programs. Computers. Accessing and using the internet. Job seeking skills. Personal development program. Samoan Women’s sewing group. Advocacy, support and referral. Children’s holiday programs.

Toongabbie Neighbourhood Cottage 9688 1084 29 Aleta Way, Seven Hills 2147 Education and vocational groups. Information and referral. School holiday activities. Cooking classes for children. Parents group. Folk art group. Seniors group. Youth drop in. Playgroup 5-11 years.

Woodcroft Neighbourhood Centre 9839 6000 65 Woodcroft Drive, Woodcroft 2767 Services provided Tuesdays and Thursday – 9.30 to 4.00pm. Information, advocacy and referral service. Community Development. School holiday activities. Community hall hire. Community Access – computer, printer, laminating machine. Resource library for residents and community groups. Justice of peace service.

13 "I thought things couldn't get worse when the marriage broke down, but losing my kids and the house really hit me hard. Talking to someone outside my own family helped me to cope and get on with life. Bill, 42

COUNSELLING

Seeing a counsellor to talk about relationships, sexual issues, grief, family issues, work and unemployment, addictions and health issues, etc. will often give you some practical solutions, make you feel better and give you a clearer perspective on things, before it becomes a full-blown problem.

After Hours Family Crisis Service 9622 0313, 9622 0522 PO Box 493, Blacktown 2148 Provide telephone and face to face crisis counselling. Support referral and information. No fees, eligibility or restrictions.

Alzheimer’s Australia NSW 9805 0100 www.alzheimers.org.au Counselling and individual support Dementia Helpline support – 1800 639 331 Living with Memory Loss program Support groups

Anglicare Counselling 4731 6467 161 Derby Street, Penrith 2750 (and Rooty Hill by appointment) Monday to Thursday. Couple family and individual counselling. Fee according to income.

Carers NSW 9280 4744 1800 242 636 (Fax) 92804755 Level 17, 323 Castlereagh Street, Sydney 2000 www.carersnsw.asn.au Carers NSW is the peak body for carers in NSW. Provides information, referral and emotional support/counselling over the phone. Referral for carers to face to face counselling.

14 Centacare (Blacktown Family Support Service) 9671 2011 4721 5331 51-59 Allawah Street 16 Richmond Road Blacktown 2148 Kingswood 2747 Counselling and family support to families with child protection issues and domestic violence where there are children aged 0-16 years (This is a home based service).

Centacare Relationship & Family Counselling 9671 2011 51-59 Allawah Street, Blacktown 2148 Monday to Friday, (evening sessions available). Counselling for couples experiencing conflict in their relationship. Counselling for persons separated from their partners. Family and child counselling where children are affected by parental conflict. Family and child Counselling were children are affected by parental separation.

Community Health Centres Blacktown Doonside Mount Druitt 9881 8700 9881 8650 9881 1200 Marcel Crescent 30 Birdwood Avenue Corner Buran and Kelly Close Blacktown 2148 Doonside 2767 Mount Druitt 2770 Provide phone and face-to-face counselling and support. Walk-in service (Monday to Friday 9:00am- 12:30pm) (Walk in service not open Wednesday at Doonside).

Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service 9207 2800 1800 805 379 197 Albion St, Surry Hills 2010 4.00pm – midnight 7 days a week, telephone-counselling service. Support, information referrals and telephone counselling to lesbian, gay and transgender people, their families and friends. Face to face counselling and referrals to psychologists and counsellors. Social and support groups meet regularly. All services free.

Hillsong Emerge LTD 9678 7900 (Fax) 9679 8900 Suit 1, 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 [email protected] Counselling Service (please call the office administrator to discuss fee variations). Personal development courses (these are 6 to 13 week programs, fees range from $35.00 to $85.00 per program: Marriage enrichment. Divorce Care. Search for intimacy. Search for life. Grief Share. DARE (Drug & Alcohol Service) – Facilitate desire to change within people’s hearts, take action, release past unhealthy habits and excel in all they do.

15 Interrelate Men’s Service Castle Hill Burwood 9680 4386 9745 5544 14/6 Castle Hill Road 55 George Street Castle Hill 2154 Burwood 2134 Male specific counselling. Couple and relationship counselling. Income based fees. Group programs.

Older Men: New Ideas (OM:NI) 9286 3860 Level 4, 280 Pitt Street, Sydney 2000 [email protected] OM:NI is: About older men meeting in the company of other older men. About mateship, making friends and belonging. About a place where men listen to other men sharing joys, sorrows, hopes and achievements. A place where men share knowledge and experience on many subjects A place where men can rebuild their self-esteem and are respected by their peers. About a group where it is safe to speak your mind in a non-judgemental environment. A base from which men earn community respect as honoured elders. About men’s health – physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, sexual, economic and environmental.

Parent Line (Centacare) 132 055 Telephone counselling information and referral for parents of children or adolescents. Help with behavioural, disciplinary, adolescent sole parent juvenile justice and school issues.

Quakers Hill Family Centre (Dalmar Child & Family Care) 9626 6620 32 Highfield Road, Quakers Hill 2763 Face-to-face family counselling. Parenting skills programs.

16 Relationships Australia 9635 9311, 9418 8800, 149 Hawkesbury Road, Westmead 2145 Individual, couple, and family counselling. Domestic violence intervention. Counselling for victims (adult partners & children) and perpetrators. Programs for children. Male perpetrators’ Program - “Taking Responsibility” - a 25 week program based on the Duluth model. The Program is designed to assist men to become aware of the beliefs they hold that underpin violent and abusive behaviour, and to teach skills in dealing with conflict in ways that build effective relationships. Mediation services.

Riverlands Therapy Services 4731 8111 72 Evans Street, Penrith 2750 A range of individual, couple and family supports for both adults and children. This includes working with blokes issues like challenging relationships, managing conflict and anger, anxiety etc.

Salvation Army Counselling 4731 1554 Suite 15, Lethbridge Court Corner Lethbridge and Castlereagh Streets, Penrith 2750 Personal counselling, family counselling, and marriage counselling. Also pre-marital counselling and groups, including couples. Counselling by appointment. Means tested.

Sydney Men’s Phoneline Inc. 9979 9909 Information and referral service for all men’s issues (legal, physical and emotional health).

UnitingCare Unifam Counselling and Mediation 4732 3836 2 Warwick Street, Penrith 2750 9891 1628 27 – 29 Hassall Street, Parramatta Individual, couple and family counselling. Counselling and education for men with families, work and relationship difficulties with their children. Post separation services, including mediation for parenting arrangements and distribution of property. Depression Project. Group work. Income based fees.

17 "The Mensline put me on to some good info when I spoke to them after hitting the wall in a big way, I don't know why us blokes always only seek help when things are really bad, but we do, and it's good to know there are a couple of places you can contact.” Daryl, 37

CRISIS SERVICES

DOCS - Child abuse notification number 1800 066 777 To report / notify child abuse / or suspected abuse in NSW. After hours service only. No counselling.

Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit (NSW Attorney Generals Department) 9374 3023 Monday to Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm Outside of these hours contact 1800 227 772. Level 6, 299 Elizabeth Street, Sydney 2000 This service provides counselling to family and friends of missing people, both at the time the person first goes missing and for families of longer term missing. It can also provide information on tracing agencies and legal issues. Support can be provided both face to face or on the telephone. The service is free and confidential.

Grief Support 9489 6644 24 hour telephone support service for those experiencing loss or grief. Listening, support and referral if required.

Hillsong Emerge LTD 9678 7900 (Fax) 9679 8900 Suit 1, 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 [email protected] Practical assistance. Ongoing advocacy and support.

Lifeline Telephone Counselling 131114 (24 hours/day) 4731 6571 15 Evan Street, Penrith 2750 Crisis telephone counselling. Face to face counselling when required.

Lifeline Western Sydney 9891 6212 131 114 24 hour crisis counselling service. Face-to-face counselling for people with gambling problems, financial issues and problems with personal relationships.

Mission Australia Counselling Service - Mission Australia Help Line 1300 886 999 24 hr generalist help line / crisis service.

Salvation Army Care Line 9331 6000 24 hour telephone counselling and referral service.

Salvation Army Suicide Crisis Line 9331 2000 24 hours telephone service providing: crisis intervention on domestic violence, child abuse, addictions, mental health, bereavement, family breakdown and suicide prevention.

Startover (Mission Australia) 9219 2000, 9217 1012 4-10 Campbell Street, Sydney 2000 24 hour telephone counselling service. Help for people with trauma, emotional, marital grief and loss, work related, gambling, alcohol and other drug dependency issues. Free face to face counselling also available. Mon-Fri 9-5pm.

“The Shed” - Drop-In Centre 9628 7272 (Contact the Co-ordinator or the Aboriginal Cultural Worker) Holy Family Education Centre 254 Luxford Road, Emerton 2770 This is a drop-in centre for all men. An Aboriginal Cultural Worker will also be available.

Victims Service Victims Support Line: Toll free 1800 633 063, or 9374 3000 Victims of Crime Bureau 9374 3005: 9:00am – 5:00pm Victims Support Line 24 hours, 7 days a week. Support and referral service for victims of crime. Free face to face counselling to eligible applicants Information on Victim Impact Statements and the Charter of Victims Rights (1996). Information on recovering from crime.

DEALING WITH ANGER

Anger is a powerful emotion. When you choose to use anger positively it can give you energy and motivation to get through a crisis. However, if you choose to use anger negatively you may risk hurting yourselves or those around you.

Hints to deal with anger: 1. Accept that you are angry. You may want to: Deny it; Blame others for your anger; or Feel bad about yourself that you are angry. The first step is to pay attention to your anger.

2. Listen to and understand your anger. With anger, as with other emotions, the message is rarely immediately clear. Often underneath the anger, there are other feelings such as hurt, fear, disappointment and sadness. It is important to let yourself be aware and feel the feelings underneath the anger.

3. Look at the ways you can express your anger and act on it. There are ways that you can express anger without harming yourself or others. For example: • Engage in bodily exercise. It releases the physical tension when you are angry. • Use a tape recorder - talk to yourself about your anger, listen to the tape a number of times, it may help you understand what is making you angry. • Start an anger diary. Try to look more closely at what is making you angry and why. • Share your anger thoughts and feelings with a trusted friend. • Try to learn new skills in problem solving, resolving conflicts or asserting your rights in an acceptable manner.

Below are some programs which can help you explore anger. Please also look at the services in the Counselling section.

Alternatives to Violence Project (NSW) 9449-8415 (phone & fax) [email protected] www.avp.org.au PO Box 471, Turramurra 2074 Two and ½ day experiential workshops for men and women building skills for self- esteem, assertiveness, communication, conflict transformation and building nonviolent relationships and community. Violence can cause harm to oneself, to others and to relationships. Violence can be physical, verbal, or emotional, as well as milder forms such as put-downs, exclusion, and stereotyping. When we find ourselves in a conflict situation, there are many alternative responses other than violence, and we have choices. Develop awareness and empathy and explore strategies to find your own creative nonviolent responses to your own experiences of conflict and violence.

Anglicare’s ‘Fathers and their Children' Program 8805 0922, 8805 0931 20 Westminster Street, Rooty Hill [email protected] Supports blokes understanding and management of the negative aspects of anger related to family relationships. One to one + group work. Specialist referrals where appropriate.

Centacare Sydney Mens Programs 9660 2044 [email protected] Anger management groups for men (Glebe and Liverpool).

Hillsong Emerge LTD 9678 7900 (Fax) 9679 8900 Suit 1, 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 [email protected] Counselling Service (please call the office administrator to discuss fee variations) Personal development courses (these are 6 to 13 week programs, fees range from $35.00 to $85.00 per program: Marriage enrichment. Divorce Care. Search for intimacy. Search for life. Grief Share. DARE (drug & Alcohol Service) – Facilitate desire to change within people’s hearts, take action, release past unhealthy habits and excel in all they do.

Interrelate – Anger Management Program: Taking Control of My Life” Burwood Castle Hill 1300 736 966 9680 4386 55 George Street, Burwood 14/6 Castle Hill Road, Castle Hill Men's support Groups. Provide people with the opportunity to take control of their lives by increasing awareness and learning strategies to more effectively manage their anger.

DEALING WITH CONFLICT

The following guide is a simple model of conflict management. It can be used between an adult and child and / or for conflicts between siblings.

There are several guidelines to observe: ● Try to deal with a situation before it becomes too large a problem. ● Stick to the issue you have decided to talk about. It is important to have a clear objective in the discussion. ● Choose a place which is free from distractions (TV, people who are not involved in the issue). ● Make sure that both parties are ready to talk about the issue. ● Choose a time when you are both relaxed. Do not attempt to resolve conflict when tempers are high. It will not work. ● No raised voices, swearing, criticising or belittling of the other person. ● No interrupting - hear each other out. Each person is entitled to have their say. ● Make sure you reach an agreement at the end of the discussion. It might be useful to set a time for review.

The process: Step 1: Identify the problem ("I need to talk to you about …"). Step 2: Say how it is for you ("I feel … when … because …"). Step 3: Hear how it is for the other person ("What is your view/idea about this?"). Step 4: Suggest what could work for you ("I could … instead of …"). Step 5: Hear how it could work for the other ("Is that OK for you?"). Step 6: Explain what is not possible and compromise if needed. This gives the child a chance to have some control over the decisions, but to keep in mind your needs as well. Step 7: Reach an agreement.

24 Example

Step 1 Father: "I need to talk to you about the time you spend on the phone when you are staying with me."

Step 2 Father: "I feel annoyed when you talk for hours to your friend. You see her every day at school but you are only with me every fortnight."

Step 3 Child: "I need to catch up on what is happening with her. She and her mother are having real problems at the moment." Father: "I can see that you want to be in touch, but I don't see that you need to talk for so long or so often."

Step 4 Father: "I would be happier if you rang just once a day and cut the calls to 15 minutes."

Step 5 Child: "I don't think that's fair. Mum lets me talk for as long as I like."

Step 6 Father: "I am not happy with you spending so long on the phone, but I see that you are not happy with 15 minutes only. What would you suggest that would be fair to both of us?" Child: "How about 15 minutes twice a day, or maybe just one half hour call if we really get talking?"

Step 7 Father: "Yes. I agree to that. It seems fair to me. We'll give it a try. Let's see how it goes and if it doesn't work out, we can talk again."

For more help look in the counselling section.

DEPRESSION

Depression is more that just being blue.

It may be depression if someone is feeling: • Down. • Worthless. • Tired and Irritable. • Hopeless. • Angry. • Suicidal. and / or finding it hard to: • Sleep. • Eat regularly. • Concentrate. • Enjoy things they usually like. • Control their moods.

Someone you know may have depression.

Their family and work may also be affected.

Encourage them to seek professional help.

The services in the Counselling and Crisis Services sections are a good place to start. Or you can visit the Beyondblue web site at: www.beyondblue.org.au

26 "I do AA on Tuesday, NA on Thursday, and GA on the weekend."

DRUGS, ALCOHOL AND OTHER ADDICTIONS

Many blokes are unaware that there are many men in the same situation as themselves. The following groups and services help, support and assist blokes.

Alcoholics Anonymous 9599 8866 48 Firth Street, Arncliffe 2205 www.aa.org.au [email protected] Provide 361 weekly meeting throughout Sydney To find your nearest meeting call the central office on the above number or check the web site.

Al Anon Family Groups Sydney Penrith 9264 9255 4731 1422, Room 36, Trade Hall, Suite 108 4 Goulburn Street, Sydney 2000 114-116 Henry Street, Penrith 2750 12 step program supporting families of alcoholics as well as childhood and relationship issues.

Alcohol and Drug Information Service 9361 8000 1800 422 599 Counselling, advice, information and referral. 24 hours, 7 days. Confidential and anonymous service. Arabic speaking counsellors on 9361 8005.

Blacktown Alcohol and other Drugs Family Services (BADFS) 9622 7511 (9361 8000 – 24 hours phone support). 119 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown 2148 Individual, couple and family counselling for alcohol and other drug related issues. Information and referral.

Centacare Gambling Counselling Service 9671 2011 G-Line (Gambling Counselling) 1800-633-635 TTY 1800-633-649 51-59 Allawah Street, Blacktown 2148 Assist gamblers &family members affected by gambling problems Monday to Friday, Evening sessions available &Saturday group (free service)

Community Health Centres Blacktown Doonside Mount Druitt 9881 8700 9881 8650 9881 1200 Marcel Crescent, 30 Birdwood Avenue Corner Buran and Kelly Close Blacktown 2148 Doonside 2767 Mount Druitt 2770 Provide phone and face-to-face counselling and support. Walk-in service (Monday to Friday 9:00am- 12:30pm). (Walk in service not open Wednesday at Doonside).

Gamblers Anonymous 9550 0430 Fax: 9564 1478 PO Box 142, Burwood 2134 Self-help therapy groups. 12 step support groups meet at various locations every day including Sundays. Gamblers Aid Hotline (24 hours) 9564 1574. GAM-ANON for partners and families of problem gamblers. Held at the same venue at the same time in different rooms.

G-line 1800 633 635 Telephone counselling service for problem gamblers and their families. 24 hour service.

Lifeline Western Sydney 9891 6212 131 114 24 hour crisis counselling service. Face-to-face counselling for people with gambling problems, financial issues and problems with personal relationships.

Marrin Weejali Aboriginal Corporation - Aboriginal Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Service 9628-3031 3 Hindemith Ave, Emerton 2770 Provide drug and alcohol counselling, referral and advocacy.

Narcotics Anonymous 9519 6200 24 hour help line. Recorded meeting list information 1300 652 820 www.naoz.org.au to download meeting lists and other information

28 Odyssey House, McGrath Foundation 9281 5144 431 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills 2010 Residential Program. Methadone reduction Program. Parents and children program. Detoxification Program. Gambling program. Adult education. Legal services. Specialised Male and female groups.

Wayback Committee Ltd 9633 4800 65 Marion Street, Harris Park 2150 Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Program: One-on-one Counselling; Group Counselling; Referrals; Welfare services; Medical Clinic: Psychiatrist & G.P; and Provide accommodation for drug and Alcohol patients.

Wesley Gambling Counselling Services Surry Hills Kingswood 9951 5566 4731 3511 15 Belvior Street, Surry Hills 2010 30 Copeland Street, Kingswood 2747 Phone and face to face counselling. Referral and support. Legal support. Financial Counselling.

Western Sydney Drug & Alcohol Resource Centre (W.E.S.D.A.R.C.) 4732 1999 13A Reserve Street, Penrith 2750 Community based drug and related information, library, referral, education, preventative and community development projects. Training for community workers on alcohol and other drugs, and related issues.

FATHERING AFTER SEPARATION

Children need their fathers as much as they need their mothers. Children need to feel loved by their fathers - girls for the sense of themselves as females and boys to model themselves as males.

However, there may be some stereotypes in our society that men are breadwinners and child-rearing is mainly a mother's job. These beliefs can make men question their ability as a father, especially after separation.

After separation, living alone can be a very difficult experience if you have been living with your family for some time. You may feel a variety of distressing emotions, terrible loneliness, resentment, anger, frustration, sadness, depression, shame towards family, friends and others. These feelings can affect your work, concentration and other commitments.

Immediately after separation, you may have to cope with a range of unfamiliar activities such as cooking, shopping, domestic chores, etc… It is hard to learn new things when one is experiencing a crisis.

In the midst of the crisis, you may have to sort out your belongings, find new lodgings and furniture for yourself. It may feel like re-organizing life from the beginning without a family.

Further down the track, you may experience some other difficulties: You may continue to feel angry with your ex-partner, and/or the legal system in regard to contact with your children. There may be a lack of space for your children to feel at home, whilst at your place. You may not know how to spend time with your children.

What can you do with your children?

Try to focus on the relationship with your children themselves. Children are harmed and they feel burdened by constantly hearing how angry or hurt one parent is with another. Children need to be able to love both parents, without feeling guilty. Keep your feelings about your ex-partner separate from your relationship with your children. Try to remain part of your children's life, by taking them to school, sport, and other activities as usual. Draw, read and/or spend some playtime together with them.

30 Try your best not to disrupt their routines. During contact times, include ‘work time’ with your children. Help them do their homework. Maintain their daily routines and rules, such as putting toys in the box, going to sleep at a set time, so that they can feel at home, rather than being a visitor.

The children have two families and two homes. Let your children have their own corner in your home, with their own bedroom and belongings. This can make them feel that your place is a home for them.

If you need advice on how to cope, physically and emotionally you can: ● Get counselling on how to cope, how to improve the relationship with your children. ● Join a support group for single fathers. ● Join a sports club to release pent up energy (this is an excellent way to deal with anger and frustration). ● Do a stress management course to learn how to relax. ● Join a course to learn more parenting skills.

Anglicare’s ‘Fathers and their Children’ Program 8805 0931, 8805 0922 20 Westminster Street, Rooty Hill 2766 Support groups Parenting skills workshops Anger management One-on-one support General information, referral and advocacy

Fathers After Divorce 9519 7988 11 Trade Street, Newtown 2042 www.fathersafterdivorce.com Divorce coaching, mediation and programs for separated fathers.

Fathers Support Services 9806 0200, 9768 6819 126 Marsden Street, Parramatta 2150 [email protected] Support groups, seminars/workshops. Individual and group assistance, parenting skills. Crisis telephone assistance. General advice/support for family crisis.

Hillsong Emerge LTD 9678 7900 (Fax) 9679 8900 Suit 1, 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 [email protected] Counselling Service (please call the office administrator to discuss fee variations) Personal development courses (these are 6 to 13 week programs, fees range from $35.00 to $85.00 per program: Marriage enrichment Divorce Care Search for intimacy Search for life Grief Share Singles Again Community Group

Interrelate Men’s Service 9680 4386 9745 5544 14/6 Castle Hill Road 55 George Street Castle Hill 2154 Burwood 2134 Specific programs and referrals for men and fathers. Male specific counselling Group programs for dads Group programs for step dads

Keeping Contact Program (Unifam) 4732 3836 2 Warick Street, Penrith 2150 9891 1628 27–29 Hassall Street, Parramatta Mediation on parenting arrangements between separating couples with children. Free service.

Lone Fathers Association 6258 4216 Educational and welfare organisation devoted to the interests of lone fathers and their children. Custody, access and maintenance matters. Provides guest speaker meetings, regular newsletters, information on legal processes, crisis assistance and referral.

Marriage, Relationship & Parenting Education (Centacare) 9660 2044 Men's groups recovery programs for the recently separated or divorced, programs for those having experienced a recent death, parent and couple seminars.

Men's Matters (Unifam) Penrith Parramatta 4732 3836 9891 1628 2 Warwick Street, Penrith 2750 27–29 Hassall Street, Parramatta 2150 Specialist counselling and mediation for high conflict families who have separated needing to make parenting arrangements and property distribution agreements.

Men's Phoneline 9979 9909 A referral service to Sydney based Men's services.

33 "Things are pretty hard these days. I was having Weetbix for breakfast, lunch and tea. Saint Vinnies and the Salvos came to the rescue with a food voucher, and some assistance to tide me over. Barry, 65

Food / Clothing / Financial Assistance

Pride often stands in the way of blokes seeking help when faced with no money, food and mounting bills like telephone and electricity. The welfare groups listed here offer practical and material assistance, including food parcels, clothing, disaster relief, furniture, accommodation, and some counselling services.

Anglicare – Anglican Welfare Services, Outer West Regional Office 9832 2300 (Fax) 9832 1934 20 Westminster Street, Rooty Hill 2766 Family support. Financial guidance Food parcels and vouchers. Home visits. Play groups. Parenting courses. Respite services. Disability services. Vacation programs. Advocacy. Welfare services. Peer support program. Fathers & Their Children (a support service to assist fathers in building strong foundations with their children as they live in a changing world).

Blacktown Community Aid & Information Centre 9621 5788 9621 5280 Fax: 9622 5909 Corner of Kelso Lane & Newton Road, Blacktown 2148 Hours Monday to Friday 9:00am to 2;00pm. Emergency food vouchers and food parcels. Electricity and water assistance. Referral services.

Churches of Christ Community Care Opportunity Shop 9621-7334 154 Best Road, Seven Hills 2147 Second hand clothing. Books. Brick-a-brack. Records tapes / kitchen ware and associated items.

Hillsong Emerge 9679-7900 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 Provide emergency financial assistance – energy, water, food vouchers. Drug and alcohol programmes and general counselling.

Rutherglen Community Centre 9835 1583 24A Anderson Avenue, Blackett 2770 Care and support. Counselling and lifestyle programs.

St. Mark's Opportunity Shop 9675-6200 97 Hyatts Road, Oakhurst 2761 Bi-monthly men’s breakfast. Op shop. Long day care centre. Before and after school care. Wednesday boy’s club 6:00 – 7:30pm. Kids Activities.

St. Vincent De Paul Society - Blacktown Region 9622-3839 140 Best Road, Seven Hills 2147 Emergency food assistance. Referral services.

The Salvation Army 9831-5694 2 Kempsey Street, Blacktown 2148 Financial assistance. Single fathers get assistance with electricity bills and food vouchers.

35 "More bills for the bin"

"When I was retrenched, we were left with big bills and a mortgage. Through the neighbourhood centre, I found out about the free financial advice service, so I arranged an appointment with the financial counsellor. He helped with a few options I would take, which took away some of the stress and worry." Bill, 55

"It got so that I didn't check the post box, just in case it was another bloody solicitor's letter. It was good to get some free legal advice on where I stood, on my property settlement and kids custody stuff." Ian, 48

FINANCIAL COUNSELLING

Hassles with money matters are often a lot easier if you know where to get assistance. The services listed here offer free or low cost help:

Anglicare – Anglican Welfare Services, Outer West Regional Office 9832 2300 20 Westminster Street, Rooty Hill 2766 Financial and budgeting guidance.

Credit Help Line, Financial Counselling 4731 2598 9951 5544 30 Copeland Street, Kingswood 15 Belvior Street, Surry Hills Free financial counselling Advice and consumer education, (money management, wise credit card use). Will negotiate with creditors. Have outreach services in Quaker Hill, Richmond and the Hawkesbury. Telephone Counselling Service - 1800 808 488

Money Care - The Salvation Army Community Centre - Lethbridge Park 9628 2954 Bougainville Road, Lethbridge Park Provide financial counselling.

36 "Dealing with the loss of my partner after 40 years and my own ill health has been difficult to say the least, but I'm starting to come out of the black hole through some counselling and family support." David, 68

GRIEF

Grief is the deep sorrow or distress that follows the loss of: • A loved one. • A job. • Your health. • Your independence. • During a divorce. • A pet.

What does grief involve? During grief a range of feelings, physical symptoms, thoughts and behaviours may be encountered: • Feelings of anger, anxiety, immense sadness, loneliness, guilt, frustration and helplessness. • Disbelief and confusion, preoccupation with dying. • Loss of hope and dreams. • Focus on missed opportunities. • Loss of appetite, sleeplessness and headaches.

Someone who is bereaved may also envisage the deceased person as real, dream of them and perhaps have conversations with them.

Other signs of difficulty with grief include: • A change in routine behaviour e.g. socialising, sport. • Not looking after themselves or their appearance • Excessive consumption of alcohol • Cutting themselves off from others and not attending social and family occasions.

Who grieves? Everyone grieves in their own way. Responses may be brief or long lasting and they may recur. The experience will be different for everyone. Try not to take the person’s reactions to the loss personally.

Sometime people wrongly assume that a person’s past experiences with loss makes them better able to cope with another.

How do men cope? Some men: • Feel that they have to express their grief by actively doing something. • Feel embarrassed to cry openly or talk about their loss and grief. • Attempt to suppress their grief and put on a brave face for fear of being seen as weak. • May not want to admit they need help and try to maintain their independence. • Overuse alcohol as a release from their pain. • Do not eat properly, or take proper care of themselves.

What can I do to help There are many things that the person can and may prefer to do for themselves. Just letting them know that you are there if they need help is often enough.

Some helpful things you can do are: • Be there. Don’t shy away or avoid the person and their loss. • Listen. Don’t give advice unless asked. • Let the person talk about their loss and the impact it is having upon them. • Encourage story-telling and reminiscing. • Involve the person whenever possible in social activities. • Offer practical help without taking over. • Be aware of your own needs and grieving. • Take note of any changes in behaviour that are out of character. • Encourage them to go for a check-up with their doctor.

Who can help? It is important to allow the person to handle things in their own way. Where possible, support them to do things for themselves.

The person should be encouraged to talk with mates, friends, family or someone they trust. They may benefit from speaking with a minister of religion or doctor. Counsellors can provide additional information, advice and support. Look in the Counselling and Crisis sections for contacts.

HEALTH

The following local services offer men access to health services and/or information.

ACON - Aids Council of NSW 9204 2400 6 Darcy Road, Wentworthville 2145 HIV prevention, health promotion, advocacy, care and support services.

Blacktown / Mount Druitt Sexual Assault Service 9881 8700 Sexual assault counselling. Mon - Fri: 9.00am.-12:30pm for referral Telephone support. Group program for adult survivors of childhood sexual assault. Court preparation and support. Community education and advocacy. Provide Counselling for men, women and children that have been sexually assaulted, and non-offending family members and partners. As NSW Health Employees, we are legally obliged to notify child abuse or neglect to the Department of Community Services. Alleged offenders of sexual assault are not offered on-going counselling.

Daruk Aboriginal Medical Service 9832 1356 2 Palmerston Road, Mount Druitt Village 2770 Aboriginal medical centre. Doctor resident (specialist referrals). Antenatal, midwife services. Dietician. Men’s support group. Grief and loss worker. Social and wellbeing workers. Health programs.

Luxford Road Clinic A Sexual Health and Reproductive Health Service 9881 1733 Grounds of Mount Druitt Hospital Luxford Road, Mount Druitt 2770 Professional, caring, non-judgemental, free and confidential service which enables people to take control of their own sexual health: Drop in and appointments (phone for times). Fully confidential. No referral needed. Information available. The clinic offers a comprehensive sexual and reproductive health service.

Men’s Health Information and Resource Centre MHIRC University of Western Sydney, Hawkesbury Campus, Richmond 2753 4570 1713 (Fax) 4570 1522 [email protected] http://menshealth.uws.edu.au Provide a Centre which designs, develops and supports research and projects which contribute to the enhancement of the health and well-being of men and boys in a variety of contexts: The work place. Family relationships. Access to health services. The centre also aims to: Promote awareness of the diversity of experiences and cultural contexts of groups of men and boys. Contribute to the development of policies and services in government departments and other agencies which support the well-being of men and boys. Promote positive images of men and boys.

Parramatta Sexual Health Clinic 9843 3124 158 Marsden Street, Parramatta 2150 Free and confidential service: No appointment needed. No Medicare card required. Fully confidential. No referral needed. Information available. The clinic offers a comprehensive service for anyone concerned about sexually transmissible diseases or HIV?AIDS.

Quit Now 9868 6522 4 Cambridge Street, Epping 2121 Stop smoking courses. Seven one and a half hour sessions over three weeks. Self help packages available.

41 Sydney Sexual Health Clinic 9382 7440 Level 3, Nightingale Wing Sydney Hospital Macquarie street, Sydney 2001 Provides a free, confidential and comprehensive service that helps you put you in control of your sexual health. The service supports your sexual health by providing: Screening and management of sexually transmissible infections including: HIV; Information and advice on sexual function and sexuality problems; Eduction; Individual and couple counselling: and A needle and syringe program. There may also be a service closer to where you live. Look under “sexual Health Clinics” in the white pages..

Visioncare NSW 9344 4122 1800 806 851 Provide prescription lenses and frames at no cost to individuals on a Centrelink benefit or a low income (Subject to meeting all criteria of an income and assets bases means test). Contact Visioncare for the details of your nearest Visioncare provider (Optometrist or Optical Dispenser).

Western Area Adolescent Team (WAAT) Youth Health Service 9881 1230 Buran Close, Mount Druitt 2770 Free service for 12-20 year Olds. Drop-in service. Counselling. Health information and referrals. Drugs and alcohol services. Doctor and nurses available. Needle and syringe provision for people up to 25 years of age.

Western Sydney Area Health Service – Mental Health Services Outpatients – Embark Building, Corner Marcel Crescent and Panorama Parade, Blacktown 9881 8888 Assessment and counselling of all mental health issues for men. Inpatient service – Bungarribee House (just behind the Embark building). Assessment and referral arranged through the Mental Health Team, your local doctor or at the hospital.

Indigenous Services

Aboriginal Children’s Service 9677 0178 3/271 Beames Avenue, Mount Druitt 2770 Supervise foster placements. Court support. Liaise with DoCS. Advocacy.

Aboriginal Hostels 9310 2777 Aboriginal Accommodation and Hostel Services.

Blacktown Aboriginal Corporation 9622 4878 261 Kildare Road, Doonside 2767 Provide resources to the community. Referral and Advocacy Centre. Junaya for Families – Family Support service.

Butucarbin Aboriginal Corporation 9832 7167 28 Pringle Road, Hebersham 2770 Adult education. Community Development. Community Management.

Hebersham Aboriginal Youth Services 9832 9330 26 Pringle Road, Hebersham 2770 Youth Development programs.

43 Link Up 1800 624 332 State wide service for aboriginal people who were removed (the stolen generations).

Marrin Weejali Aboriginal Corporation - Aboriginal Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Service 9628-3031 3 Hindemith Ave, Emerton 2770 Provide drug and alcohol counselling, referral and advocacy.

Miimali Mates 9835 4146 42 Copeland Road, Emerton 2770 Family support, referrals, home visits, groups, morning teas, parenting. Youth activities, 2 workers 1 male and 1 female. Provide art and craft workshops, day trips, camps and family liaison.

New Careers for Aboriginal People 9677 1699 Unit 1, 270 Beames Avenue, Mount Druitt Village 2770 Aboriginal employment and training assistance

Sydney Regional Aboriginal Corporation Legal Service 9318 2122, 9621 1653 1st Floor, Suite 2, 9 Patrick Street, Blacktown 2148 Provide legal advice and representation to the Aboriginal community

Winan Gidyal 9881 1670 Ground of Mount Druitt Hospital, Railway Street, Mount Druitt 2770 Role of this unit is to oversee projects and programs to address aboriginal health issues in Western Sydney.

LEGAL ASSISTANCE

Hassles with legal matters are often a lot easier if you get the right advice. The services listed here offer free or low cost help.

Aboriginal Legal Service Blacktown Redfern 9621 165 9318 2122 1st Floor, Suite 2, 9 Patrick Street 619 Elizabeth Street, Blacktown 2148 Redfern 2016 Provides services in criminal and family law. Fortnightly legal advice for Civil Matters

Adolescent Legal Aid 4732 3077 Level 1, 311 High Street, Penrith 2150 Provides (by appointment) legal assistance and advice on family law, criminal law and general law matters. Mon. to Thurs. 9.00-11.30 those charged with a criminal offence and faced with possible custodial sentence. Tuesdays to Fridays - family law advice.

Chamber Magistrate - Local Court Blacktown Penrith 9672 2610 4720 1510 1 Kildare Road, Blacktown 2148 Henry Street, Penrith 2150 Pre-legal advice (by appointment)

Child Support Service (Legal Aid) 9744 3833, 1800 451 784. Level4, 74 Burwood Road, Burwood 2134 Telephone advice & free legal advice on child maintenance/support. Helps sole parents to get child maintenance/support and other related child support issues. Assistance with negotiating agreements & representation in court for persons eligible for legal aid. Information & assistance to paying parents on child maintenance / support. Community information sessions.

Community Justice Centre 4732 1933 Level 1, Neale Court, 311 High Street, Penrith 2150 Mediation service for members of the community.

Consumer Credit Legal Centre 9212 4111 Free telephone advice for consumers in relation to credit, debt and banking: Tuesday 10:00am –12:30pm & Thursday 2.00pm to 4:30pm.

Immigration Advice & Rights Centre 9281 8355 (Advice line Tuesdays & Thursdays 2-4pm) 9281 1609 (Administration) Level 4, 414 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills 2010 Provides free immigration advice by telephone and at drop-in services on Monday evenings in Surry Hills and on Wednesday evenings in Parramatta. Representation provided where cases meet casework guidelines and centre has resources available. Education, publications and law reform work on immigrations issues. IARC is available to give seminars on the Domestic Violence provisions in immigration law and other immigration topics. IARC publishes “The Immigration Kit” and a quarterly newsletter “Immigration News”.

LawAccess NSW 1300 888 529 1300 889 529 TTY PO Box 620, Parramatta 2150 Law Access NSW is a free telephone service that provides legal information, referrals and in some cases legal advice to people affected by the laws of NSW. The service is available Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm, excluding public holidays. LawAccess Inline www.lawaccess.nsw.gov.au provides easy access to over 1800 plain language legal fact sheets.

Legal Aid Commission 9621 4800 Level 3, 85 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown 2148 Criminal local court representation (Blacktown Court only). Family law representation (Blacktown and Parramatta Court). Criminal and family law advice.

Macquarie Legal Centre 9760 0111 Level 1, 250 Pitt Street, Merrylands NSW 2160 Free legal advice to people living in Western Sydney. Advice on a wide variety of law, including family, employment and some civil matters. Free phone advice on a wide variety of legal matters to low income-earners on Mondays and Thursdays between 2:00-4:30pm. Provide (by appointment) free legal advice during business hours and Thursday evenings. Operate the Central West Contact Service, a supervised child contact and changeover service for children and parents. Contact the centre directly on 9893 7949. Provide information and referral to local legal and non-legal services. Provide fact sheets and other legal resources.

Mission Australia Court Support Service 9086 4222 4 Campbell Street, Sydney 2000 Generalist court support service for victims of crime in Sydney & adjoining areas. Generalist telephone / crisis counselling. Victims of Crime telephone counselling. Telephone Families and Friends of Missing Persons Counselling. Face-to-face Victims of Crime counselling. Face to face generalist counselling. Court support service for victims of crime.

Mount Druitt & Area Community Legal Centre Inc. 9675 2009 76 Rooty Hill Road North (corner of Short Street), Rooty Hill 2766 The Mount Druitt & Area Community Legal Centre is a generalist legal centre that provides free basic legal advice, casework and referral to people on low or “no” income, who live in the Blacktown and the East Ward of Penrith Local Government Areas and who would otherwise have difficulty accessing legal services. Telephone advice available – call office for session times. Appointments made following initial phone advice.

Wesley Community Legal Service 9951 5544 15 Belvoir Street, Surry Hills 2010 Legal assistance for: Debt recovery and insolvency. Consumer credit. Criminal law. Family law. Do not provide general legal advice.

MIGRANT / REFUGEE SERVICES

Traditional migration theory suggests that factors such as political upheaval, revolution, persecution, economic hardship, warfare, unemployment, higher aspirations, aspirations for social mobility, aspirations for children rather than self, adventure, instability and expectations of future disturbances are a major element in persuading people to immigrate to Australia. Of these, only persecution and warfare are the direct cause of refugee migration.

Up to one-third of all immigrants and as high as one-half of non-English speaking background immigrants have come from disturbed or potentially disturbed situations in the past two decades. Consequently the line between humanitarian and other immigrants is blurred.

Refugee and humanitarian settlers differ from the average migrant in several respects. They have suffered trauma and, in many cases, torture. They have frequently lived in camps for long periods and have suffered other disruptions to normal life. They are unlikely to be proficient in English, have lower skills levels than other eligibility categories and are more likely to suffer long periods of unemployment in Australia. Refugees are considered the most vulnerable category of migrants on a number of dimensions.

The data gathered by DIMIA show that a significant proportion of refugee and humanitarian settlers are not fluent in English, have poor education and low skills, though many other migrants are educated above the Australian average. Thus settlement problems vary from finding it difficult to secure employment appropriate to skills, to even finding any kind of employment.

It does not mean that everyone from such backgrounds is necessarily in greater need of support, nor that others might not be equally disadvantaged. But due to urgent settlement problems, uprooted immigrants need special attention to overcome serious social and economic participation barriers.

The following services provide information, guidance and support to alleviate problems and barriers:

Immigration Advice & Rights Centre 9281 8355 (Advice line Tuesdays & Thursdays 2-4pm) 9281 1609 (Administration) Level 4, 414 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills 2010 Provides free immigration advice by telephone and at drop-in services on Monday evenings in Surry Hills and on Wednesday evenings in Parramatta. Representation provided where cases meet casework guidelines and centre has resources available. Education, publications and law reform work on immigration issues. IARC is available to give seminars on the Domestic Violence provisions in immigration law and other immigration topics. IARC publishes “The Immigration Kit” and a quarterly newsletter “Immigration News”.

Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency (MECA) 9625 9300 Burran Close, Mount Druitt 2770 Welfare information and casework for migrants.

Translating and Interpreter Service (TIS) 24 hour phone service 131450 General enquiries 1300 655 082 Translating service 1300 655 080 Onsite interpreting 1300 655 081 Provides direct access to interpreter service by telephone.

NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS) Carramar Auburn 9794 1900 9646 6666 152-168 The Horsley Drive, 44-50 Auburn Road Carramar 2163 Auburn 2144 www.startts.org STARTTS provides counselling and support for people from refugee and refugee like backgrounds (including Permanent Residents, Temporary Protection Visa Holders and asylum seekers). We also provide physiotherapy, psychiatric assistance, educational and therapeutic groups (including men’s groups), youth camps, employment assistance programs and programs supporting families to adjust to life in Australia. We have counsellors who speak a number of different languages and we organise interpreters for the languages we do not cover within our staff. STARTTS services are impartial and confidential.

Older Men

Below are a number of groups for older men at which you may find some assistance and support:

Alzheimer’s Australia NSW 9805 0100 Macquarie Hospital Campus Cox’s Road, North Ryde NSW 2113 www.alzheimers.org.au Counselling and individual support. Dementia Helpline support – 1800 639 331. Education and training for health professionals. Living with Memory Loss program. Support groups. Library & Information service. Information and Help Sheets. Resources in other languages. Employment and volunteering opportunities.

Blacktown Aged Care Assessment Team 02 9881 8288 Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown Rd, Blacktown 2148 Provides assessments of older people in order to identify client and carer needs, formulate a care plan and make referrals to appropriate community and/or accommodation services. Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm. From residents 65 + years.

Blacktown Senior Citizens Centre 96226216 Gribble Place, Blacktown 2148 Open Wednesdays and Fridays, 9:00am to 2:00pm. Bowls. Arts and crafts. Outings.

Centacare Blacktown Neighbour Aid Service 9671 2011 51-59 Allawah Street, Blacktown 2148 Provides services to people with disabilities or are frail aged. The service is provided by trained volunteers who visit people in their homes for social support. The service is for both males and females and is a free service.

Commonwealth Carelink Centres 1800 052 222 www.commcarelink.health.gov.au Commonwealth Carelink Centres are a single access point for up-to-date contact; availability and eligibility information on community aged care, disability and support services in your area. Centres can also provide either you or your clients information on opening hours, possible costs and entry periods for receiving services.

Doonside Senior Citizens Centre 96217920 Graham Street, Doonside 2767 Mondays to Fridays, 9:00am to 2.30pm. Cards. Bowls. Social days. Computers.

Gilgai Aboriginal Centre 9832 3825 2 Bindaree Street, Hebersham 2770 Day respite program. Community Aged care packages.

Healthy Older People’s Association 96711191 Shop 28, Station Arcade, 24 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 Monday to Friday 9:30am to 4:00pm. Bush walking. Cards. Scrabble. Outings. Craft. Casual walks.

Lalor Park Senior Citizens Centre 96248251 Corner of Heffron and Gilmore Roads, Lalor Park 2147 Mondays 8:30 to 12;20 – Bowls. Tuesdays 8:30 to 4:00 - Bingo and darts. Wednesday 9:00 to 1:00 - Indoor bowls and hoy. Thursday 8:30 am to 4:00 - Darts and bingo.

52 Mount Druitt Senior Citizens Centre 96253665 Ayres Grove, Mount Druitt 2770 Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 2:00 pm. Bingo. Bus trips. Indoor bowls. Fun Day, 2nd Saturday of each month.

Riverstone Senior Citizens Centre 96279221 Park Street, Riverstone 2765 Monday 9:30 to 2:00 – Bowls. Wednesdays 9:30 to 2:00 – Cards and bowls. Friday – Frail aged group. Saturdays - Bowls and hoy.

Self Help for the Hard of Hearing (SHHH) 9845 6766 Provide reconditioned hearing aids free of cost ($100 fitting fee applies).

Westmead Dental Clinic 9845 6766 Provides priority service to those suffering pain as a result of their dental problems. Health Care Cards are available to people on a low income as well as those in receipt of a Centrelink benefit (Centre link can provide you with information about Health care card eligibility).

Residence Arrangements for Children

The Family Court encourages parents to try to reach agreement on the arrangements for their children after separation. This section provides information on some of the issues involved in children's matters after separation and divorce.

Making Arrangements for Children The children need both of you. Even though you are separating, you are both still parents and you are the most important people in your children's lives. The best arrangements are those where the children continue to have a loving relationship with both their parents.

When making arrangements for children, you will need to consider: • Where the children will live? • How their time will be divided between households? • What the parenting arrangements will be? • If they live most of the time with one parent, when will they see the other Parent and other close family members? • Who will look after them after school? • Where will they spend holidays? • Any other things such as schooling, health care, sport, or religious matters.

What arrangements will work? Every family is different so the arrangements that work for your family may be different from every other family. It is common for children to live with one parent and then see the other parent at specified times. Or, if the parents live near each other, the children may live some of the time with one parent and some of the time with the other. Try to make arrangements that will work for your children.

Establishing a regular routine as early as possible will help the children get used to the arrangements. It is important to develop a clear structure to the arrangements but to be flexible when required.

Give plenty of notice if you wish to change the routine, for example, for special family occasions. If you wish to take the child out of the area for more than one night, tell the other parent well in advance.

If you agree about the Children, do you have to go to Court about the children?

You do not have to go to Court about the arrangements for your children after separation and divorce. You and your former partner may work out the arrangements yourselves, or you may decide to get help from counsellors and other people in the community.

Can you make your agreement legally binding? If you would like to make your agreement legally binding you have two alternatives. • You can ask the Court to make Consent Orders. • Alternatively, you can apply to register a Parenting Plan. Both these options will give your agreement the same legal force as a Court order. This means they can be enforced by the Court if one party does not comply.

What if you cannot agree about the children's arrangements? If you cannot agree about the arrangements for the children, you can apply to the Court for Parenting Orders.

What to Consider in Children's Matters In all matters involving children, the Court must make a decision based on the best interests of the child. When deciding what is in the child's best interests, the Court must consider: • The relationship with both parents. • The wishes of the child and factors which might affect the weight they give to those wishes, for example how old the child is. • The effect on the child of any separation from a parent or other child in the family. • The practical difficulty and cost of the child having contact with a parent. • The ability of each parent to care for the child. • The age, sex and cultural backgrounds of the child (including any need to maintain contact with Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander culture). • The need to protect the child from any physical or psychological harm caused by any abuse or violence. • The attitude of the parents to the child and to their parenting responsibilities. • Any violence or violence order in the family. • Whether the Court order will lead to further applications. Any other factors the Court thinks relevant.

How can you enforce a Court order? There are a number of options for you when a person has refused to obey a Family Court order. As the Court does not automatically enforce its orders, you have to tell the Court what the problem is. You do this by making an application.

What do you do if your former partner has taken the children and refused to return them? If your former partner has taken the children and refused to return them, you can contact the Family Court. The Court's Mediators may be able to help you by talking with you and your former partner to try to sort out the problem, and if appropriate, reach a new agreement without going to court. This service is available in some regional locations before you file an application. Information about other services which can help you reach a new agreement without going to Court is available from the Family Law Hotline on 1800 050 32, the Regional Law Hotline on 1800 050 400, or for information about community based organisations and getting legal advice see below.

If you cannot reach an agreement, you can apply to the Court for a recovery order for the return of the children. You need to complete and file (lodge) with the Court an: • Application for Orders (Form 3) for recovery orders, and • Affidavit (Form 16) in support of your application. The Court may order you to talk with a Court Mediator before it will make any more orders. If you think the situation is urgent, you should ask Court staff about what is needed to get an urgent Court hearing.

You have an order allowing you to see your children but your partner won't let you If you have an order allowing you to see your children but your partner won't let you, you can contact the Court's mediation services to see if they can help by talking to you and your former partner to try to reach agreement. If you cannot reach an agreement, you can file an application for enforcement of the orders. You need to complete and file (lodge) with the Court the following forms: • Contravention of child order (Form 49) • Affidavit (Form 16) which sets out the facts. If you have no current proceedings in the Family Court, you should apply to the Federal Magistrate Service. If you have current proceedings in the Family Court, you should apply to the Family Court. Note: Both Courts share the same registries (offices).

The Family Court of Australia web site has much more information www.familycourt.gov.au

Child Support Service (Legal Aid) 9744 3833, 1800 451 784 Level 4, 74 Burwood Road, Burwood 2134 Telephone advice & free legal advice on child maintenance/support. Helps sole parents to get child maintenance/support and other related child support issues. Assistance with negotiating agreements & representation in court for persons eligible for legal aid. Information & assistance to paying parents on child maintenance / support. Community information sessions. Level 4, 74-76 Burwood Rd, Burwood.

UnitingCare Unifam Counselling and Mediation 4732 3836 9891 1628 2 Warwick Street, Penrith 2750 27-29 Hassall Street, Parramatta 2150 Specialist mediation service for separated parents to make parenting arrangements regarding residence and contact.

57 "What's a bloody resumé?"

"I do building work, I'm a jack of all trades but not licensed. I've always worked even though work's bloody thin around here now, it's basically my life. Ron, 36

"Pretty hard for a bloke in this area when he hits 40, employers are pretty fussy and most want young blokes so they can pay less. I'm doing some retraining through TAFE in computers, looking at real estate work." Rich, 41

TRAINING and EMPLOYMENT

Work is very important to most blokes, they often value work as part of their identity. The following employment and training services can assist:

Blacktown College of TAFE 9208 1836 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 Long and short courses for the general public. Customised courses for disadvantaged adult learners.

Break Thru Employment Solutions Phone: 9679 8999 Suite 5, Level 2, 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 Assist the long term unemployed, general unemployed and disabled people (mild intellectually disabled and people with brain injury) get back into the workforce. Provide on the job training for their disabled clients in any field they are capable of working in eg: state or local government, private enterprise etc.

Blacktown Migrant Resource Centre 9621 6633 Level 2, 125 Main St, Blacktown 2148 Provide advice on strategies and pathways migrants need to take to succeed in obtaining work/experience and training in accordance with their overseas skills and qualifications. Help people find suitable employment by assisting with resumes, job applications and preparing for job interviews. Provide information on formal assessment and recognition of overseas skills and qualifications. Provide work experience placements with insurance cover. Provide training workshop on needs basis eg. Job search skills (interviews, resumes, writing cover letters etc) Skillmax courses.

Catalyst Recruitment 9621 3555 Unit 26, 15-17 Kildare Road, Blacktown 2148 Job Matching.

Centrelink Mount Druitt Blacktown Employment 13-2850 Employment 13-2850 Pensions 13-2300 Pensions 13-2300 TTY 1800 810 586 ~ 3 Mount Street, Mount Druitt 2770 38 Prince Street, Blacktown 2148 Pensions. Career information. Family assistance. Employment information. Child Care assistance. Unemployment benefits. Youth / student assistance. Disability assistance. Abstudy.

Choice Employment Solutions 9831 8715 Shop 2, Ground Floor, 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 Help people with disabilities get back into mainstream employment. Provide on the job training for people with disabilities. Employability course (VETAB accredited) “Becoming a Worker”

CRS Australia Blacktown Mount Druitt 9208 0800 9208 6100 Level 8, Level 1, Grace Bros 17 Patrick Street Westfield Mount Druitt Blacktown 2148 Kelly Close, Mount Druitt 2770 Help people with injuries and disabilities return to work. Vocational Rehabilitation. OH&S consultancies. Assist people on Worker's Compensation and Centrelink benefits. Workshops on ‘How to Look for Work’ and disclose about injuries or disabilities. Interview preparation. Rehabilitation Coordinator Training. OH&S training. On the Job training with host employers in a variety of fields.

DECA Training 9626 1600 Building (T3A) Nirimba Education Precinct Eastern Road, Quakers Hill 2763 License upgrades (all classes). Pre employment checks for heavy vehicle drivers. Written assessments for literacy/numeracy. Risk assessment profile. Driving skills assessment. Interviewing for heavy vehicle drivers. Assessments to get work cover license. Truck and bus license training. Heavy vehicle driver training. Defensive driver training (cars). Forklift training. Other plant elevator training.

Global Skills Employment and Training Services Blacktown Mount Druitt 9676 7699 9675 4216 Trade Link Building Shop 2, Daniel Thomas Plaza 12/14 Second Avenue Mount Street , Blacktown 2148 Mount Druitt 2770 Vocational job search for people with injuries. Job Search Training Program – free training in job search techniques. Job search support for people with injuries returning to the work force. Confirm eligibility with your local Centrelink office.

Hillsong Emerge LTD 9678 7900 (Fax) 9679 8900 Suit 1, 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 [email protected] Personal Support Program – assists people in overcoming their barriers to employment. Mount Druitt Enterprise Centre – assists people with hobbies who have the potential to generate income to set up a small business / enterprise. Monday to Wednesday 32 Jersey Road, Emerton - 9628 5475

IPA Personnel 9621 3957 Shop 11 30 Campbell Street, Blacktown 2148 Recruitment agency.

IPC Employment Blacktown Rooty Hill 9676 8111 9677 9422 Suite 106A Shop 5 30 Campbell Street 52 Rooty Hill Road North Blacktown 2148 Rooty Hill 2766 Third largest Job Network member in NSW. Provide advice and support to achieve your career goals. Individual assessment of your skills and experience. Access to a large established network of employers. Creation of a vocational profile for daily matching to positions.

Jobsupport Blacktown 9831 4377 Level 1, 115 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 Assist intellectually disabled people by helping them look for employment and then provide on-site training. Training provided until client reaches 100% accuracy and agreed award or productivity based wage. Follow up maintenance training once employed. Maintenance visits occur as negotiated with the employer.

Macquarie Employment Training Services (METS) 9838 0567 5a / 167 Prospect Hwy, Seven Hills 2147 Assist people with intellectual disabilities get back into the workforce. Group Training Company which employs and provides on the job training. Assist employers with Traineeships in: office/administration, small business operations, retail operations and childcare traineeships.

Mature Workers Program 9672 8054 (Fax) 9672 8054 1st Floor, Suite 13, 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 Assist in job matching. Resume presentation. Self help program. Assessment of training needs and referral to appropriate training providers.

Mission Australia 9675 1022 28 Ayres Grove, Mount Druitt 2770 Links to Learning Program is for young people who are at risk of leaving school early and who experience multiple barriers to remaining in formal education. JPET program assists disadvantaged young people to find a job, get back into school or training, find a place to live, work out finances and get your life back on track. NEIS- provides support and assistance in setting up a small business. Personal support program. Counselling and support for people who have significant barrier to employment. Nursing course (fee applies) – Certificate III (aged care.) Landscaping traineeships.

Mount Druitt College of TAFE 131 870 North Parade, Mount Druitt 2770 A wide variety of courses are available at Western Sydney Institute of TAFE, Mount Druitt College.

Nirimba Business Centre 9853 3200 Building T2A, Nirimba Education Precinct, Eastern Road, Quakers Hill 2763 Business Centre for small businesses. Identify and help implement Economic and Employment strategies. Assist people who wish to get off the Dole and start their own small business by supportive environment.

North West Community College Inc. 9680 1117 Blacktown Training Centre, Kildare Rd, Blacktown 2148 Provide a variety of courses including: Computers. Hospitality. Literacy and numeracy. Marketing and sales. Languages. Home skills. Animal care. Money matters.

Nova Employment and Training Inc. 9831 7199 Unit 4, 18 Third Avenue, Blacktown 2148 Specialist employment service for people with a disability. Priority given to people aged 16-24 years with an intellectual disability. Assistance with pre employment, job placement and post placement support and training.

Nirimba College of TAFE One semester or full year courses 131 870 Short courses & Commercial courses 9208 7071 or 9208 7011 Nirimba Education Precinct, Eastern Road, Quakers Hill 2763 A variety of courses in further education and vocational courses designed to enhance employment prospects. Delivery options include: Full or part time training Day and evening training Short courses (weekday, evening, or weekend depending on course) Industry based training Flexible delivery Special training programs include: Traineeships / Apprentices TAFE-delivered Vocational training for schools (TVET) International students Migrants and temporary residents Various short term government funded programs for individuals and industry Workplace Assessment & Training services for individuals and industry Student counseling & career guidance services. Disability support services. Courses available from Statement of Attainment to Diploma level. All courses from Certificate II to Diploma are nationally accredited. Courses include: Architectural Basic and general education Business and administration Bricklaying Child studies Community Services/Welfare Carpentry and Joinery Shop fitting Information Technology Logistics Music Roof tiling Short courses: Occupational Health and Safety induction for construction workers Safe working on roofs Safety rail training.

The Salvation Army Employment Plus 9679 5400 (Fax) 9679 5425 28 Third Avenue, Blacktown 2148 Education and training services. Community Work Team Program - for the unemployed receiving Centrelink benefits.

The Salvation Army Joblink College of Further Education Mount Druitt Campus - Joblink 9832 3461 Suite 1-3, 270 Beams Avenue, Mount Druitt 2770 Provide education and training services. Provide training for people who want to re-enter the workforce: Computer training;. Career education and women's courses. Conduct various programs including those for women who are considering re- entering the workforce. Conduct training courses to suit needs of clients from other programs, for eg: Mature Workers and Work for the Dole. Conduct fee for service training to meet community needs. Conduct motivation and team building days for employers.

Western Sydney Aboriginal Corporation Mount Druitt 9832 2346 3/11 Eddie Road, Minchinbury 2770 Training services which provides their clients with skills to gain employment. Training Centre - provide the following courses: Fine arts. Sewing. Screen printing. Leather works. Motor mechanics. Aboriginal Land Care Group – Bush Regeneration.

Western Sydney Training & Education Centre INC. 9832 4775 48 Bulolo Drive, Whalan 2770 Education and Training Services. A variety of courses in further education. Certificate in General Education for ADULTS. Music Industry Courses. Childcare Courses. Computer Courses. Workplace Assessor and Trainer.

WorkDirections Australia Blacktown Mount Druitt 9208 2900 9208 6766 (Fax) 9208 2929 Level 1, 15 Cleeve Close 77 – 79 Main Street (Roger Price Building) Blacktown 2148 Mount Druitt 2770 Intensive Support Customised Assistance Job Placement. Job Search training Transition to Work Program Personal Support Program

Young Men’s Services

There are a number of organisations which provide services specifically for young people. The services below will also be able to help you find a range of other local services and groups in your area:

Adolescent Legal Aid 4732 3077 Level 1, 311 High Street, Penrith 2750 Provides (by appointment) legal assistance and advice on family law, criminal law and general law matters. Mon. to Thurs. 9.00-11.30 those charged with a criminal offence and faced with possible custodial sentence. Tuesdays to Fridays - family law advice.

Blacktown Youth Services Association 9831 2095 (Fax) 9671 6712 Caters for the educational and recreational needs of young people, 12-24 years, living in Blacktown City.

Eagles Raps Inc. 9621 6464 7 Julie Street, Blacktown 2148 Drop-in’s. Vacation programs. Aerosol art programs. Informal counselling and referral.

Emerton Youth Recreation Centre 9628 9292 (Fax) 9835 2782 Lot 137 Jersey Road, Emerton 2770 Drop-in service for young people aged 7 to 17+. Health education and health promotion. Book club program. Arts and craft program. Fitness / weights program. Volleyball. Basketball. Holiday programs. Information referral. Touch football. Soccer. Snooker. Table tennis. A really big outside, draughts board. A big outside O’s & X’s board. Kiosk, drinks, sweets, etc.

Fusion Cafe 9672 3894 8805 5900 2/13 Cleeve Close, Mount Druitt 2770 Project assists young people aged 12-18 years. Operate an After School Youth Café Tuesdays to Fridays. Weekend outings/daytrips/camps. Holiday programs. Information referral and advocacy service. Intercultural programs. Dance parties / band nights. Arts & crafts.

Hillsong Emerge LTD 9678 7900 (Fax) 9679 8900 Suit 1, 125 Main Street, Blacktown 2148 [email protected] Personal development courses (these are 6 to 13 week programs, fees range from $35.00 to $85.00 per program: Marriage enrichment. Divorce Care. Search for intimacy. Search for life. Grief Share. Counselling Service (please call the office administrator to discuss fee variations). Singles Again Community Group. Hillsong Men’s Conference & weekly program.

Kids Help Line 1800 551 800 A 24 hour, 7 days a week telephone service where children & young people can call themselves - to discuss any issue concerning them. Callers can choose whether they speak with a man or a woman counsellor. WEB Counselling 3.00pm to 9.00pm, Monday to Friday www.kidshelp.com.au Email counselling available.

Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency (MECA) 9625 9300 Burran Close, Mount Druitt 2770 Welfare information and casework for migrants. Youth Development programs.

Mount Druitt Integrated Youth Service (MDIYS) 9628 0424 (Fax) 9835 3305 44 Copeland Road, Emerton 2770 MDIYS is involved in community development and service provision. MDIYS offers services to young people aged 12-20 years. From October 2003 MDIYS will provide: A daytime outreach service in conjunction with other youth services. Street Smart Youth Outreach program on Friday and Saturday evenings. Counselling and Case Management. Group work. Police Citizens Youth Club - Bidwill 9628 2133 Mackellar Road, Bidwill 3 on 3 Basketball. Gymnastics. Pool Table + Comps. Holiday Programs. Volleyball. Indoor Soccer. Education Room / Computer Skills. Friday Night Drop In.

Police Citizens Youth Club - Shalvey 9628 2628 (Fax) 9835 1199 Luxford Road, Shalvey 2770 Bingo. Boxing. Karate. Weights gym. Tai Kwon Do. Indoor soccer Arts & crafts. Delivery of the following Community Solutions funded programs: Reconnect Program (alternately offered at Bidwill and Mount Druitt PCYC’s Youth Drop-In Centre

Reconnect - Blacktown LGA 9832 3934 Unit 8, 270 Beames Avenue, Mount Druitt Village 2770 An early intervention project working with young people 12-18 years and their families. Aims to prevent family breakdown & youth homelessness. Focus on improved family relationships and strengthening ties to education, training, work and the community.

BOOKS

1. Beating the Blues, A self Help Approach to Overcoming Depression Susan Tanner, Jillian Ball.

2. Manhood, An Action Plan for Changing Men's Lives, Steve Biddulph, (1995) Finch Publishing, Sydney.

3. The Secret of Happy Children; & More Secrets of Happy Children Steve Biddulph & Shaaron Biddulph, (1995) Angus and Robertson.

4. Raising Boys, Steve Biddulph & Shaaron Biddulph, Celestial Arts, California.

5. Dad's Place, A New Guide for Fathers After Divorce. Jill Burrett, (1996) HarperCollins Publishers, Sydney.

6. Dealing with Anger, Self-help Solutions for Men, Frank Donovan (1999) Finch Publishing, Sydney.

7. Fathers After Divorce, Building a New Life and Becoming a Successful Separated Father. Michael Green, (QC) Finch Publishing, Sydney.

8. Stories of Manhood, Journeys into the hidden hearts of men edited by Steve Biddulph (2000) Finch Publishing, Sydney.

9. Taming the Black Dog: A Guide to Overcoming Depression Bev Aisbett, Harper Collins, 2000

Internet Resources

University of Western Sydney's Men's Health Information and Resource Centre: www.menshealth.uws.edu.au

Western Sydney Area Health Service www.wsahs.nsw.gov.au

Western Sydney Area Health Service directory: www.wsahs.nsw.gov.au/healthlinkdirectories

Dads in Distress. (An information web site) www.dadsindistress.asn.au

Carers NSW www.carersnsw.asn.au

Interactive Website for young people www.reachout.com.au

Parenting www.parenting.nsw.gov.au

Mental Health www.sane.org www.beyondblue.org.au ybblue.com.au moodgym.anu.edu.au depressionnet.com.au

VIDEOS

1. 1-2-3 Magic: Effective Discipline for Children 2-12 Child Management, Illinois c/-Silvereye Educational Publications Pty Ltd, Raymond Terrace NSW (02 4933 9797) Phelan, T. (1990)

2. Depression and Men, A Patient Education Video Roerig, Pfizer 38 Wharf Road, West Ryde NSW.

International Men’s Health Week

Men and boys face different health concerns than women and girls, and International Men's Health Week (IMHW) is an opportunity to both acknowledge these differences and look for ways to improve the health and wellbeing of men and boys.

The week is also an opportunity to acknowledge the diversity of men and boys in NSW and to celebrate the positive contributions of men and boys to their communities.

Concerns about these health differences has led to the establishment of International Men's Health Week, to be held annually every June.

Future dates: • 2006 - June 12-18

For further information, visit the website http://www.menshealthweekaustralia.org

Services Table

A Page 43 Aboriginal Children’s Service Page 43 Aboriginal Hostels Page 45 Aboriginal Legal Service Pages 45 & 66 Adolescent Legal Aid Pages 3, 14 & 18 After Hours Family Crisis Service Page 39 ACON – Aids Council of NSW Page 27 Al Anon Family Groups Page 27 Alcohol and Drug Information Service Page 27 Alcoholics Anonymous Page 22 Alternatives to Violence Project (NSW) Pages 14 & 51 Alzheimer’s Australia NSW Page 14 Anglicare Counselling Pages 3, 22 & 31 Anglicare ‘Fathers & their Children’ Program Pages 11 & 34 Anglicare – Anglican Welfare Services, Outer West Regional Office B Page 43 Blacktown Aboriginal Corporation Page 51 Blacktown Aged Care Assessment Team Page 27 Blacktown Alcohol and other Drugs Family Services Page 58 Blacktown College of TAFE Page 34 Blacktown Community Aid & Information Centre Pages 11, 49 & 58 Blacktown Migrant Resource Centre Page 39 Blacktown / Mount Druitt Sexual Assault Service Page 51 Blacktown Senior Citizens Centre Page 66 Blacktown Youth Services Association Page 58 Break Thru Employment Solutions Page 47 Butucarbin Aboriginal Corporation C Page 1 Cardinal Freeman Centre, St Vincent de Paul Society Pages 14 & 51 Carers NSW Page 59 Catalyst Recruitment Page 15 Centacare (Blacktown Family Support Service) Page 52 Centacare Blacktown Neighbour Aid Service Page 15 Centacare Relationship & Family Counselling Page 28 Centacare Gambling Counselling Service Page 22 Centacare Sydney Mens Programs Page 59 Centrelink Page 45 Chamber Magistrate - Local Court Page 3 Child Abuse Prevention Service – CAPS Page 4 Child and Parent Stress Centre

73 Page 10 Child Support Agency (CSA) Pages 45 & 57 Child Support Service (Legal Aid) Page 59 Choice Employment Solutions Page 35 Churches of Christ Community Care Opportunity Shop Pages 15, 28 & 39 Community Health Centres Page 45 Community Justice Centre Page 52 Commonwealth Carelink Centres Page 45 Consumer Credit Legal Centre Page 36 Credit Help Line, Financial Counselling Page 59 CRS Australia - Blacktown & Mount Druitt D Pages 39 & 43 Daruk Aboriginal Medical Service Page 12 Dean Park Neighbourhood Centre Page 60 DECA Training Page 1 Department of Housing Page 18 DOCS - Child abuse notification number Page 4 DOCS - Helpline Page 52 Doonside Senior Citizens Centre E Page 66 Eagles Raps Inc. Page 66 Emerton Youth Recreation Centre F Pages 4 & 18 Families & Friends of Missing Persons Unit Page 4 Family Relief Occasional Childcare Pages 4 & 31 Fathers After Divorce Page 31 Fathers Support Services Page 67 Fusion Café G Page 28 G-Line Page 28 Gamblers Anonymous Page 15 Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service Page 52 Gilgai Aboriginal Centre Page 60 Global Skills Employment and Training Services Page 12 Graceades Community Cottage Page 18 Grief Support H Page 52 Healthy Older People’s Association Page 43 Hebersham Aboriginal Youth Service Pages 5, 15, 18, 22, 32, 35, 60 & 67 Hillsong Emerge LTD Page 12 Holy Family Education Centre Page 1 Hope Hostel

74 I Pages 46 & 49 Immigration Advice & Rights Centre Page 23 Interrelate Pages 4, 16 & 32 Interrelate Men’s Service Page 60 IPA Personnel Page 61 IPC Employment, Blacktown and Rooty Hill J Page 61 Jobsupport Blacktown K Page 5 Karitane Page 32 Keeping Contact Program (Unifam) Pages 5 & 68 Kids Help Line L Page 52 Lalor Park Senior Citizens Centre Page 46 LawAccess NSW Page 46 Legal Aid Commission Page 18 Lifeline Telephone Counselling Pages 19 & 28 Lifeline Western Sydney Page 44 Link Up Page 32 Lone Fathers Association Page 40 Luxford Road Clinic M Page 61 Macquarie Employment Training Services (METS) Page 46 Macquarie Legal Centre Page 61 Mature Workers Program Page 12 Marayong House Neighbourhood Centre Page 1 Marist Youth Care SAAP Accommodation Page 32 Marriage, Relationship & Parenting Education (Centacare) Pages 28 & 44 Marrin Weejali Aboriginal Corporation - Aboriginal Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Service Page 5 MENDS Now Page 40 Men’s Health Information and Resource Centre MHIRC Page 33 Men's Matters (Unifam) Page 33 Men's Phoneline Pages 5, 16, 19 & 57 Mensline Australia Page 62 Mission Australia Page 19 Mission Australia Counselling Service - Mission Australia Help Line Page 47 Mission Australia Court Support Service Page 44 Miimali Mates Page 36 Money Care - The Salvation Army Community Centre - Lethbridge Park

Page 47 Mount Druitt and Area Community Legal Centre Inc. Page 62 Mount Druitt College of TAFE Pages 12, 49 & 68 Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency (MECA) Page 68 Mount Druitt Integrated Youth Service MDIYS Page 53 Mount Druitt Senior Citizens Centre N Page 28 Narcotics Anonymous Page 1 Nepean Caravan Park Page 44 New Careers for Aboriginal People Page 62 Nirimba Business Centre Page 63 Nirimba College of TAFE Page 62 North West Community College Inc. Page 62 Nova Employment and Training Inc. Page 50 NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS) O Page 29 Odyssey House, McGrath Foundation Page 16 Older Men: New Ideas P Pages 6 & 16 Parent Line (Centacare) Page 6 Parents as Teachers Page 41 Parramatta Sexual Health Clinic Page 68 Police Citizens Youth Club – Bidwill Page 68 Police Citizens Youth Club – Shalvey Q Page 16 Quakers Hill Family Centre (Dalmar Child & Family Care) Page 41 Quit Now R Page 69 Reconnect - Blacktown LGA Page 17 Relationship Australia Page 17 Riverlands Therapy Services Page 53 Riverstone Senior Citizens Centre Pages 12 & 35 Rutherglen Community Centre S Page 35 St. Vincent de Paul Society - Blacktown Region Page 35 St. Mark's Opportunity Shop Page 35 Salvation Army, The Page 20 Salvation Army Care Line Page 17 Salvation Army Counselling Page 20 Salvation Army Suicide Crisis Line Page 64 Salvation Army Employment Plus, The Page 64 Salvation Army Joblink College of Further Education

76 Page 53 Self Help for the Hard of Hearing SHHH Page 13 Shalvey Community Centre Page 20 Startover (Mission Australia) Page 6 Swinson Cottage Family Centre Inc. Page 17 Sydney Men’s Phoneline Inc. Page 44 Sydney Regional Aboriginal Corporation Legal Service Page 42 Sydney Sexual Health Clinic T Page 49 Translating and Interpreter Service (TIS) Page 1 Tenants Hotline Page 20 “The Shed” – Drop-in Centre Page 13 Toongabbie Neighbourhood Cottage Page 6 Tresillian Wentworth U Page 6 UnitingCare, Burnside NEWPIN Father’s Centre Page 7 UnitingCare Burnside - Father Support Service Pages 7, 17 & 57 UnitingCare Unifam Counselling and Mediation V Page 20 Victims Service Pages 42 & 53 Visioncare NSW W Page 2 Wanbinga Page 29 Wayback Committee Ltd Page 2 Wentworth Area Community Housing Ltd Page 29 Wesley Gambling Counselling Services Page 47 Wesley Community Legal Service Pages 42 & 69 Western Area Adolescent Team (WAAT) Youth Health Service Page 64 Western Sydney Aboriginal Corporation Mount Druitt Page 42 Western Sydney Area Health Service – Mental Health Services Page 29 Western Sydney Drug & Alcohol Resource Centre (W.E.S.D.A.R.C.) Page 2 Western Sydney Tenants Service (WESTS) Page 64 Western Sydney Training & Education Centre INC. Page 53 Westmead Dental Clinic Page 44 Winan Gidyal Page 13 Woodcroft Neighbourhood Centre Page 7 Woodriff Cottage - Family Skills Training Program Page 65 WorkDirections Australia Y Page 2 Youth Accommodation Emergency Line

SECOND PRINT JULY 2005

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Some of the ideas and quotes in this booklet come from the following sources: CARTOONS compliments of Harry Keys 0407 957 945 THE “BLOKES” BOOKLET For Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca areas. Chris Hewgill,, Mens Worker Nambucca Valley Neighbourhood Centre (NVNC) “Blokes Project” 02 6568 2305 JUST HANGING ON? A HANDBOOK TO HELP MEN IN CRISIS. Nada Damevska, Dennis Hunter-Papp, Joyce Chui, Tuyet Nguyen, Sharon Jacobson, Veronica Salinas, Anh-Linh Pham, Anita Lee-Yuen & Brian Melocco Fairfi eld Community Counselling Service Fairfi eld Health Service 9728 7233 or 9794 1700 HEY, DAD! FOR SEPARATED FATHERS. HANDOUT 8.3 Produced by Centacare Broken Bay and Uniting Care Burnside Mark Byrne, Co-ordinator of Men’s programs 9660 2044 [email protected] Directory Social services for men in Western Sydney. Prepared by Martin Wolterding. When a mate needs a hand – Coping with Loss and Grief Hunter Area Health Services Depression is more than being blue…. Mental Health Promotion & Prevention Service (02) 6766 4900 Child Support Agency WEB site www.csa.gov.au Family Court of Australia WEB site www.familycourt.gov.au Alternatives to Violence Project (02) 9949 8415 * Cartoon in Health Section - Men’s Health Information & Resource Centre, 2003. University of Western Sydney. * Indigenous Cover Graphic from NAPCAN Australia. PO Box K241, Haymarket 1240.

THANK YOU TO: Dale Williams - Anglicare’s Fathers & their Children Program Gillian Sliwka - Mens Health Information & Resource Centre MHIRC Anthony Brown - Mens Health Information & Resource Centre MHIRC Sam Skaff - Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency Raul Pollak - Blacktown City Council Blacktown City Council Graphic Services - for printing & design The Blokes Book is a collaborative project of the Men’s Health Information and Resource Centre, Anglicare’s Fathers & their Children Program and Blacktown City Council.