The declining wellbeing of sole parents in Australia in the 21st century
Our summary
The wellbeing of sole parents in Australia has been declining at a concerning rate, according to this research drawing on longitudinal data. Across indicators such as financial security, mental health, housing stability and social participation, the study finds significant deterioration over recent years.
Sole parents report increasing pressure from low-income work, high housing costs and the heavy load of caring without adequate support. Many describe struggling to maintain employment due to inflexible workplaces, limited childcare availability and constant financial strain. The burden of managing household needs alone has also contributed to rising stress, exhaustion and social isolation.
The research highlights the gendered nature of these experiences, noting that most sole parents are women who face both structural disadvantage and persistent societal expectations. Policy shifts in income support, housing affordability and employment services have compounded hardship for many families.
For community work professionals, the findings underscore the urgency of accessible, family‑centred supports, advocacy for adequate income protection and interventions that prioritise safety, stability and long‑term wellbeing for sole‑parent households.