CHILDREN & PARENTING ARRANGEMENTS
If the parents are separated, divorced, re-married, re-partnered they still have duties and responsibilities in relation to their children. When making arrangements for the children or applying for a parenting order, it’s important to make sure the arrangement is practical and in the children’s best interests.
If you and your former partner agree on the future arrangements for your children after separation you do not have to go to court, you can:
- Make a parenting plan – not a legally enforceable agreement; and
- Obtain consent orders – it is a written agreement that is approved by a court.
Parenting arrangements may cover:
- Where the children may live;
- Who the children spend time and communicate with;
- Children’s schooling or childcare;
- Medical issues;
- Religious or cultural practices;
- Financial support for the children;
- Financial support for the children; and
- Communication between individuals who have parental responsibility.
If parents continue to disagree about parenting arrangements, they may need a parenting order from a family court.
