Not-for-profit organisation Families Tasmania has gone into liquidation after over 100 years due to financial difficulties and operating at a deficit.
Originally established as the Child Welfare Association in 1917, the organisation had a primary objective of reducing the high infant mortality rate, establishing a sterilised milk supply for babies and pioneering the first child health clinics in Launceston and Hobart.
In 1956, the organisation changed its name to the Child Health Association and in 2021, it adopted the name Families Tasmania while continuing to support children and families through various programs and online resources.
In a statement, the board said the decision to close due to “financial challenges” and “increasing competition for funding” was made in the “best interest” of the association, community and members.
“The decision to appoint an administrator over our organisation has not been taken lightly,” the statement said.
“We believe that by taking this step now, we can provide the best opportunity to transfer our programs to other reputable providers seamlessly.”
“This will help to ensure that the valuable services Families Tasmania has offered will continue to be accessible to the community we have served with dedication and care.”
The board said the legacy of the organisation’s work can be seen in the Tasmanian Child and Parenting Service, child and family centres and other programs and services now available in the state.
“While the decision to wind up the organisation has been heart-wrenching for the Board, it provided us with the best chance of ensuring Tasmanian communities can continue to access programs and services.”
