Lending a Hand to Thrive: Supporting Each Other
Lending a hand to thrive: supporting each other is at the heart of strong families and connected communities. When families support one another through life’s challenges, they create a foundation for resilience and growth. Whether it’s parents guiding their children, siblings looking out for each other, or extended family stepping in during difficult times, these acts of care and encouragement strengthen family bonds. A helping hand whether emotional, financial, or simply being present can make all the difference in ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggles.
This year’s theme, Lending a hand to thrive: supporting each other, highlights the importance of connection, care, and resilience within families. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the strength of family bonds, reconnect with loved ones, and embrace activities that bring us together. No matter what family looks like for you, let’s celebrate the power of support and the difference we can make for each other.
This theme has never been more important, especially with the rising cost of living putting pressure on families and communities. Many households are struggling to keep up with everyday expenses, from rent and groceries to childcare and transport. In times like these, small acts of support i.e. sharing a meal with a neighbour, offering a carpool to reduce fuel costs, simply checking in on someone can go a long way in easing the burden. No one should have to face financial stress alone, and when we come together, we can find ways to help each other get through tough times.
At the core of it all, thriving isn’t just about making ends meet—it’s about feeling secure, valued, and supported. When we step up to lend a hand, we remind each other that we’re not in this alone. Whether it’s through emotional support, financial assistance, or simply being there for one another, we create stronger, more connected communities. By supporting each other through these challenging times, we build resilience—not just for today, but for the future.
Australia’s Families | Research & Resources
Australian Parenting | parenting videos, articles and apps for Australian parents and families
Barnardos | Supporting children and families
Beyond Blue | Mental health support
Emergency Relief services to support individuals and families in times of crisis
Families and Work | family friendly workplaces
Financial help – National Debt Helpline | information to get finances back on track or call 1800 007 007
First Nations Resilience Project | stories and sources of resilience from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities
Life Education resources for educators, families, parents and carers
Neighbours Every Day | create sharing and belonging
Reachout | mental health and wellbeing support for youth
Reachout | classroom resources on resilience
Relationships Australia | relationship services for individual and families
Sport | developing life skills through sport
For Further Information:
Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children
Evaluation of the Inclusion Support Program
In Home Care Evaluation Report
Mental health literacy and interventions for school-aged children
Families Then & Now: households and families
More research findings and practice resources can be accessed from the Australian Institute of Family Studies website.
For further information about Australia’s families see:
Australian Bureau of Statistics – Household and families: Census
Australian Bureau of Statistics – People and Communities 2021
Child Family Community Australia (CFCA)
Family Action Centre, University of Newcastle
Resources on Resilience
About Resilient Families | links to resources and support for Australian families
Indigenous Financial Resilience, Centre for Social Impact
Financial Resilience in Australia, Centre for Social Impact