Here to help families get on the same page
Family Group Conferencing (FGC)
Creating shared plans that put children and families first.
Independent Facilitators | Safe, Supportive Process | Child-Focused | Confidential
Working together for better outcomes
Family Group Conferencing (FGC) is a voluntary process that helps families make important decisions about the care and wellbeing of a child or young person. Centacare delivers this service in partnership with the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), providing independent facilitators who guide families to develop their own plan of support in a safe and respectful space.
How family group conferencing works
FGC is a voluntary and respectful process designed to help families take the lead in decision-making. An impartial facilitator ensures everyone’s voice is heard, creating space for open conversation and practical planning.
Family-led decision making
Independent facilitation
Collaborative Planning
Inclusive participation
Safe and confidential environment
When might your family need a conference?
Family Group Conferencing may be recommended when there are worries or decisions to be made about a child’s care or wellbeing.
These can include:
- Concerns about child safety or wellbeing
- Relationship or communication breakdowns within the family
- School attendance or behavioural challenges
- Transitions in care arrangements
- When multiple agencies are involved in family support
The Family Group Conference process
The FGC process follows a clear, supportive structure to guide families through planning and review.
- Referral & Preparation – A referral is made by a caseworker, professional, or family member. The facilitator meets with the family to prepare.
- Information Sharing – All participants share their perspectives and concerns.
- Private Family Time – The family meets in private to develop their plan.
- Plan Presentation – The plan is shared, refined, and agreed upon.
- Review – A later meeting is held to check progress and adjust if needed.
Safe. Respectful. Restorative.
Our facilitators create a calm and inclusive environment where families can talk openly, reach understanding, and plan for the future together. Each conference is guided by respect, confidentiality, and a genuine commitment to child safety and family wellbeing.
Ready to get started?
If you think your family could benefit from a Family Group Conference, contact us to discuss your situation.
- Referrals can be made by caseworkers, community organisations, or families themselves.
- Fees are determined upon application.
- Sessions can be held face-to-face, online, or by phone.
- Drop us a message via the contact form re: Counselling
- Call us: 1300 619 379
Albury
566 Macauley St, Albury NSW 2640 – View in maps
Griffith
4/136-140 Yambil St, Griffith – View in maps
Wagga
203 Tarcutta St, Wagga Wagga – View in maps
Mulwala
About our organisation
Centacare South West NSW
Support that’s real, local, and here when you need it.
We’re a not-for-profit social service agency working across Wagga, Albury, Griffith, Mulwala and the wider Riverina. Our team supports individuals, families and communities through counselling, mental health services, NDIS support, school wellbeing programs, and more.
Whatever life throws your way, we’re here to help you face it — with compassion, practical support, and a safe space to feel heard.
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