Parenting Arrangements

What is a Parenting Plan?

A Parenting Plan is a written document agreed to and signed by both parents. It will usually cover things like:

• care arrangements for children;
• responsibilities of the parents;
• how decisions will be made about the care and welfare of the children;
• communication between all parties; how the parents will communicate with each other and how they will both communicate with the children.

A notable difference between Parenting Plans and Parenting Orders is that a Parenting Plan is not legally binding or enforceable.

What are Parenting Orders?

Parenting Orders are a written agreement that is approved by the Family Court and is binding and enforceable on the parties. You won’t have to attend any court hearings though, as your application is processed internally by the Court.

Common issues that can be dealt with in Parenting Orders include: 

• where a child will live;
• when the child will spend time with each parent;
• medical and educational needs of the child; and

communication between all parties; how the parents will communicate with each other and how they will both communicate with the children.

Every family is unique, and arrangements such as special occasions (Christmas, birthdays, school holidays), regular contact, special needs, travel,  and any safety issues, including family violence concerns, may also be relevant.

We can help whether your situation is straightforward or complex. You may already have a basic agreement with the other party, or you may have no agreement but want to get the process started.

Research has shown that children who enjoy stable and safe routines and environments are more likely to be happy and healthy and reach their full potential.

We can advise you regarding parenting arrangements and assist you to put in place legally recognised and binding agreements to serve the best interests of your child.