Each year, tens of thousands of people and hundreds of organisations celebrate National Families Week - Australia’s annual celebration of the vital role of families.

This National Families Week you’re invited to take time to do something special to appreciate and strengthen your family and those around you. Maybe take an extra hour for that bit of extra family “tlc” – talking, listening and connecting. We’re giving special emphasis this year to families with young people aged 12 to 18 years, and to the important role of parenting. Young people are Australia’s greatest resource. Effective parenting and encouragement are important ways to help young people reach their potential.

The Australian Government, through the Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, is sponsoring National Families Week 2006 with Families Australia. Centrelink is also promoting National Families Week and providing support through its national network.

National Families Week is timed to coincide with the United Nations International Day of Families on 15 May. This day is observed by the United Nations to mark the importance that the international community places on families as the most fundamental units of society, as well as concern about their situation in many parts of the world.

There are lots of ways for community groups (large and small), employers, government departments, politicians and others to get involved.

Let your imagination run wild - but be sure to check whether you need public liability insurance. More ideas for activities can be found on our website at www.familiesaustralia.org.au. By registering online, you can also see what other local communities are doing for the week.

Click here for more information