A New Age of Parenting

Moving Beyond the Mothering/Fathering Binary

Join Dr Liana Leach, Rob Sturrock and Brendon Le Lievre for a dynamic discussion on contemporary parenting. 

Traditional ideas of fatherhood have been intertwined with ideas of masculinity, centring on the model of a ‘protector’, a ‘provider’ and a ‘disciplinarian,’ who is uninterested and uninvolved with the day-to-day aspects of parenting.

These ideals have shifted over the years, with fathers moving from this distant breadwinner to someone who strives to be present physically and emotionally for his children, with many men desiring to take a more equal role in parenting. This new involved model of fatherhood emphasises the caring and nurturing of children, roles which have traditionally been seen as key tenants of motherhood.

In this shifting and blurring of the sharp line between motherhood and fatherhood, is there a distinct role for fathers today? In what ways does the gendered divide in parenting persist to this day?

A free pre-show event. But RSVPs are essential.
RSVP with your name and phone number for A New Age of Parenting at RSVP@thestreet.org.au 

Rob Sturrock 
Rob Sturrock is a dad, kid wrangler, author and advocate on fatherhood. Through his advocacy, Rob is a commentator on gender equality and masculinity, publishing his book ‘Man Raises Boy’ in 2020.  Rob has been involved in public policy development, advocacy, and research at various levels of government and community.

Brendon Le Lievre
Brendon is an internationally accredited coach who supports new dads adjust to the shifting responsibilities and new priorities of fatherhood. Founder of Dad Coach, Brendon lives in Canberra with his wife and two sons.  

Dr Liana Leach
Associate Professor Liana Leach is a researcher at the National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health (NCEPH) at The Australian National University. In 2009, Liana completed her PhD at the Centre for Mental Health Research (CMHR) examining gender differences in depression and anxiety. Since then, her research has focused on understanding parents’ work and caregiving roles in Australia, and how challenges in work and caregiving can impact mental health. Liana’s work is published in several high quality academic journals and she has presented at national and international conferences.