Parenting and children
Parenting matters focus on making arrangements that are in the best interests of your children if it is safe to do so. These decisions can feel emotional and complex, particularly when communication is difficult or there are differing views about what is best.
UNDERSTANDING THE SERVICE
Understanding parenting matters
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting arrangements. Each family is different, and arrangements should reflect what is in the best interests of your children.
This may include:
Parental responsibility
Where children live
Time spent with each parent
Communication and decision-making
Allegations of child abuse and domestic violence
We help you understand how these factors apply to your situation.
THIS MAY APPLY IF YOU..
Have recently separated and have children
Cannot agree on parenting arrangements
Have safety or family violence concerns
Want to formalise existing arrangements
Need to vary existing court orders
HOW WE HELP
What we can assist with
Our role is to provide clear, practical guidance so you understand your options and can move forward with confidence.
Parenting plans and consent orders
Formalising arrangements in a way that is structured, clear and workable for your family.
Negotiation and mediation
Helping reach agreement without the need for court proceedings where possible.
Court representation
Guiding you through the court process if agreement cannot be reached.
Safety and family violence
Clear advice where there are concerns about the safety of you or your children.
Guidance and support
Practical guidance tailored to your circumstances and best interest of your children.
Structured approach
A structured approach to moving forward.
Start with clear guidance
Understanding your options is the first step. We'll help you work out what needs to be done and in what order.
OUR PROCESS
How we'll work together
You don’t need to have everything figured out. We’ll guide you based on your situation.
1.
Consult
We take the time to listen and understand your situation and your children’s needs. You will receive clear advice on your options and next steps.
2.
Plan
We develop a strategy tailored to your circumstances, focusing on practical outcomes and next steps.
3.
Work together
We assist with negotiation, mediation, and documentation to help reach agreement where possible. If an agreement outside of litigation is not possible, we guide you through the court process.
4.
Resolve
We work towards arrangements that provide stability and clarity for your family.
INSIGHTS
How parenting arrangements are determined
Parenting matters are guided by the best interests of the child under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth).
Safety first
Meaningful relationships
Child's needs
Questions
The right information can help you make confident decisions. Here are some common questions and key points to understand.
We understand that parenting matters can be challenging. Our focus is to provide clear, steady guidance so you feel supported and confident in the decisions you make.
No. There is no automatic rule for equal time. The focus is on what is in the child’s best interests, practicality of the arrangements and whether there are any safety concerns.
Not always. Many parenting matters are resolved through mediation.
We can guide you through dispute resolution processes and, if required, court proceedings.
Safety is a priority. Urgent steps may be required where there are risks to a child or parent.
A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents that sets out arrangements for children. It is not legally binding but can be a useful framework.
Still have questions?
Get in touch and we'll answer what you need to know.
Take the next step
You don’t need to have everything figured out. We’re here to help you understand your position and what to do next.