$20,000 grant to support fathering initiative

Sunday, 4 September 2016

• $20,000 to support The Big Camp Out at Domain Stadium on October 8, 2016
• Grant will help waive fees for participants from low socio-economic households 

More fathers and children will have the opportunity to set up a tent for the night at the home of Western Australian football, thanks to funding from the Liberal National Government.

Community Services Minister Tony Simpson today announced $20,000 had been provided to The Fathering Project to give fathers from low socio-economic households the opportunity to participate in The Big Camp Out with their children.

The Big Camp Out provides fathers with the opportunity to spend quality one-on-one time with their children through a camp out experience at Domain Stadium.  It encourages them to work together by preparing for the overnight stay and participating in activities.

"Fathers have a profound impact on the lives of their children. Research has shown that fathers are an important factor in a child's academic, social and emotional capability and their overall health and development," Mr Simpson said.

"This event will encourage fathers to unplug from everyday life and to connect with their children in a unique environment.

"The State Government is pleased to be able to provide funding which will provide spaces for up to 100 participants who would not normally be able to participate."

The funding will also be used to meet the costs of the venue hire and support activities for more than 500 participants.

"I commend The Fathering Project on helping fathers to recognise their importance and equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to engage with their children," the Minister said.

Fact File

• The Big Camp Out is a partnership with Outdoors WA as part of the Outdoors October campaign to get WA families outdoors and actively engaged in October
• Selection of participants for free entry will be managed by the Gosnells and Challis Child and Parent Centres
• For more information, visit https://thefatheringproject.org/event/the-big-camp-out