Super nannies for troubled Oz families

Australian parents who are struggling to cope with their children will be sent "super nannies" to help them raise their offspring properly, under a government plan released yesterday.

The state of Victoria will begin a trial later this year in which parenting experts will visit the homes of vulnerable families to try to break the cycle of disadvantage and protect children. "Becoming a parent is a difficult and confusing time for everyone, but some mums and dads need some extra help," Victoria's Community Services Minister Lisa Neville said.

The staff will work with parents, helping them in the day-to-day tasks of bringing up children. "For some families this could involve helping to establish routines around buying and preparing healthy food, keeping their home safe and clean, getting kids to school and bath and bed time," Neville said. "They may also help manage budgets."