Warren Cann

Principal Advisor

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Hons), Master of Science (Clinical Psychology), MAPS

Warren Cann is a psychologist and has held the position of Parenting Research Centre CEO since 2002. During this time, the Centre has been recognised nationally and internationally for the quality of our applied research, and our capacity-building strategies and programs.

Warren has extensive experience in helping policymakers and organisational leaders bring scientific rigor to the practical task of improving the effectiveness of services and supports provided to children and families.

Among other things, he has played a lead role in:

• establishing the Australian Government-funded Raising Children Network, which connects millions of parents with trusted online information every year
• leading the design and delivery of major national parenting support programs
• delivering the $8.75 million Early Home Learning Study in Victoria
• designing a practice framework for supporting parental behaviour change
• co-authoring many information resources and program materials including a program for parents of young adolescents.

Warren has been working with families, training and supporting health and welfare professionals who work with families, and developing and implementing parenting support initiatives since 1986. He has a particular interest in effective supports for parents raising children with complex needs, or who are experiencing significant adversity themselves. He has substantial experience in program and practice design and development, and knowledge and skills in research translation and intervention implementation.

Before joining the Parenting Research Centre, Warren worked in various roles in the Victorian Government Department of Human Services, including stints as a psychologist in early childhood intervention and protective services. He has a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Melbourne.