Free helpline for separating dads

Free, 24/7. General information only, not legal advice. In an emergency call 000.

Fair Go Dads uses an automated AI assistant. It gives general information only.

Looking after yourself through separation

Separation is one of the hardest things a dad can go through. Feeling stressed, angry, sad or lost is common, and it's not a sign of weakness. Talking to someone helps, and things can get better.

If you need to talk now

If you or anyone else is in danger: 000
Lifeline: 13 11 14, 24/7 crisis support
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467, 24/7
MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78, 24/7 counselling for men
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636, 24/7 support for anxiety and depression
1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732, 24/7 family and domestic violence support
13YARN: 13 92 76, 24/7 crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Support from other dads

Dads in Distress (Parents Beyond Breakup): 1300 853 437. Peer support from dads who have been through separation themselves.

Small things that help

Talk to someone. A mate, a family member, your GP or one of the services above. You don't have to carry it alone.
See your GP. Your doctor can help with stress, sleep and low mood, and can refer you for counselling.
Look after the basics. Try to eat regular meals, get some sleep and move your body each day, even a short walk.
Go easy on alcohol and other drugs. They can make hard feelings harder to manage.
Take it one step at a time. You don't have to sort everything out today. Pick one thing to do next.
Stay connected with your kids in the ways you can, and keep them out of adult conflict.

Worried about a mate?

If you're worried someone might be thinking about suicide, ask them directly and listen. Asking won't put the idea in their head. Encourage them to call Lifeline on 13 11 14 with you. If they're in danger right now, call 000.

Fair Go Dads is not a counselling service. We give general information only. The services above are free, confidential and staffed by trained people.