FAQs
Here are commonly asked questions we receive about our organisation and our groups:
Can I attend just some of the sessions?
We ask all mums to commit to the full duration of the group, so you will need to be prepared to attend all sessions. This helps you form better connections with the other participants and your facilitators. Our discussion groups are popular and we often have waiting lists, so we will accept people that can commit to the full course. We understand that the unexpected can happen, such as illness, of course.
What is the cost of the groups and how do I pay?
The attendance cost is a $60 donation. This donation can be paid in advance of the start of the group to confirm your place. Payments can be made into Account: 03-0510–0726821–00 with the group reference e.g. 'Newtown mums'. Otherwise you can bring cash to your first group. If a donation is not possible for you and your family, please just contact us to let us know as we want our groups to be inclusive and do not exclude anyone on this basis.
What if I can't pay the full fee ($60)?
We are here to support and empower mothers. We welcome all mums to attend, so if you can't meet the full contribution please get in touch to discuss your options. If you are able to contribute beyond the suggested $60, we would gratefully receive more and you will be helping cover the costs of other mums attending our groups.
What should I expect from a group?
All groups are going to be a little different, with different discussions and individuals. We aim to support mothers by providing a group that focuses entirely on you and your needs. We will foster a sense of connection in the hopes you can form strong bonds. These groups are a confidential and safe place to share the realities of motherhood. Many of our mothers have experienced welcoming groups with refreshing honesty and support. Read testimonials from other mums to see what they have to say. Find out more about our groups.
Can I attend a group if it is not in my area?
Yes. Unlike antenatal and PIN groups, you can choose any group to attend, regardless of where it is although it is desirable to attend one in your suburb so that you get to meet others in your local community and start building those connections and friendships with others close by.
Can I attend if I am step- or co- parenting? (Co-parenting: parenting alongside another parent you are separated from.)
Yes. Every sort of mother (or caregiver/guardian, if you prefer to call yourself that) is welcome at our discussion groups. Please register your interest in a group specific to step- or co- parenting by emailing us.
Can I attend if I have school aged children and can they access the babysitting services for the day time groups?
Yes, and our babysitting service is for any aged child.
Can I attend if I am transgender or non binary?
Yes. Again, every sort of mother is welcome, so if you consider yourself a mum please sign up for a group. You can register your interest in a group specific to transgender or non binary parenting by emailing us.
Can I attend if I have a disability or special needs, or my child has a disability or special needs?
Yes. Please let us know in advance so we can make any preparations necessary. Also, you can register your interest in a group specific to parenting while disabled or with special needs (or parenting children with disabilities or special needs) by emailing us.
What type of groups do you offer?
We've got a range of groups on offer, from working mothers to sole parenting. See our upcoming groups or contact us if you have an idea for a group.
Can I attend more than one group?
Yes, mums are welcome to come to more than one group! Please note that if there is significant interest for a particular group, mothers who have not yet attended may be favoured first.
How can I make a donation?
Any donations are much appreciated. Donations can be made into Account: 03-0510–0726821–00 with the reference 'donation'. Donating $20 will cover the cost of refreshments for a group for one week. Donating $50 will cover venue hire for a week.
How can I support Mothers Network?
Mothers Network is a not-for-profit organisation that runs on people putting time and effort in to keep it going. Donations are always appreciated to cover our costs. Other ways to support us include volunteering your time by:
How can I get involved with Mothers Network?
As you can see above, there are several ways to be involved at Mothers Network. You can also join our governance group.
Can I attend just some of the sessions?
We ask all mums to commit to the full duration of the group, so you will need to be prepared to attend all sessions. This helps you form better connections with the other participants and your facilitators. Our discussion groups are popular and we often have waiting lists, so we will accept people that can commit to the full course. We understand that the unexpected can happen, such as illness, of course.
What is the cost of the groups and how do I pay?
The attendance cost is a $60 donation. This donation can be paid in advance of the start of the group to confirm your place. Payments can be made into Account: 03-0510–0726821–00 with the group reference e.g. 'Newtown mums'. Otherwise you can bring cash to your first group. If a donation is not possible for you and your family, please just contact us to let us know as we want our groups to be inclusive and do not exclude anyone on this basis.
What if I can't pay the full fee ($60)?
We are here to support and empower mothers. We welcome all mums to attend, so if you can't meet the full contribution please get in touch to discuss your options. If you are able to contribute beyond the suggested $60, we would gratefully receive more and you will be helping cover the costs of other mums attending our groups.
What should I expect from a group?
All groups are going to be a little different, with different discussions and individuals. We aim to support mothers by providing a group that focuses entirely on you and your needs. We will foster a sense of connection in the hopes you can form strong bonds. These groups are a confidential and safe place to share the realities of motherhood. Many of our mothers have experienced welcoming groups with refreshing honesty and support. Read testimonials from other mums to see what they have to say. Find out more about our groups.
Can I attend a group if it is not in my area?
Yes. Unlike antenatal and PIN groups, you can choose any group to attend, regardless of where it is although it is desirable to attend one in your suburb so that you get to meet others in your local community and start building those connections and friendships with others close by.
Can I attend if I am step- or co- parenting? (Co-parenting: parenting alongside another parent you are separated from.)
Yes. Every sort of mother (or caregiver/guardian, if you prefer to call yourself that) is welcome at our discussion groups. Please register your interest in a group specific to step- or co- parenting by emailing us.
Can I attend if I have school aged children and can they access the babysitting services for the day time groups?
Yes, and our babysitting service is for any aged child.
Can I attend if I am transgender or non binary?
Yes. Again, every sort of mother is welcome, so if you consider yourself a mum please sign up for a group. You can register your interest in a group specific to transgender or non binary parenting by emailing us.
Can I attend if I have a disability or special needs, or my child has a disability or special needs?
Yes. Please let us know in advance so we can make any preparations necessary. Also, you can register your interest in a group specific to parenting while disabled or with special needs (or parenting children with disabilities or special needs) by emailing us.
What type of groups do you offer?
We've got a range of groups on offer, from working mothers to sole parenting. See our upcoming groups or contact us if you have an idea for a group.
Can I attend more than one group?
Yes, mums are welcome to come to more than one group! Please note that if there is significant interest for a particular group, mothers who have not yet attended may be favoured first.
How can I make a donation?
Any donations are much appreciated. Donations can be made into Account: 03-0510–0726821–00 with the reference 'donation'. Donating $20 will cover the cost of refreshments for a group for one week. Donating $50 will cover venue hire for a week.
How can I support Mothers Network?
Mothers Network is a not-for-profit organisation that runs on people putting time and effort in to keep it going. Donations are always appreciated to cover our costs. Other ways to support us include volunteering your time by:
- contributing skills, for example journalism or web services
- becoming a group facilitator (you must have attended at least one group prior)
- joining our team of babysitters
How can I get involved with Mothers Network?
As you can see above, there are several ways to be involved at Mothers Network. You can also join our governance group.