Parents can seek assistance through various avenues:

• Family Relationship Centres: These centres provide information and mediation services to help parents reach agreements on parenting arrangements. They can also refer you to other specialist services, such as family law counselling or programs about parenting after separation. More information is available on the Family Relationships Online website.
• Legal Aid Commissions: These commissions offer legal advice and assistance, including information on family dispute resolution services. Eligibility for representation may depend on specific criteria. For details, visit the Victoria Legal Aid website.
• Community Legal Centres: Independent, not-for-profit organizations providing free legal advice, casework, and information. Some centres specialize in family law and child support services. Locate a centre near you through the Federation of Community Legal Centres.
• Private Legal Practitioners: Accredited family law specialists can offer tailored legal advice and assistance. State and Territory law societies and bar associations provide directories to find a specialist family lawyer in your area.

These resources aim to support parents in establishing arrangements that prioritize the best interests of their children.

Parenting arrangements refer to the agreements or court orders that determine the responsibilities and roles of separated parents concerning their children's care. These arrangements cover aspects such as:

• With whom the child will live
• The time the child will spend with each parent
• Decision-making responsibilities regarding the child's welfare

The primary focus is always on the best interests of the child.

A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents outlining the care arrangements for their children. To be recognized under the Family Law Act 1975, it must be:

• In writing
• Signed and dated by both parents
• Made voluntarily without any coercion

While not legally enforceable, a parenting plan can guide future arrangements and may influence court decisions if disputes arise.

Consent orders are legally binding agreements approved by the court, covering parenting and financial matters. They have the same legal effect as orders made after a court hearing. Parents can apply for consent orders without attending court by submitting the necessary documentation to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

If parents cannot reach an agreement, they are encouraged to engage in Family Dispute Resolution (FDR), a mediation process facilitated by a neutral third party. If FDR is unsuccessful or inappropriate (e.g., in cases involving family violence), parents may apply to the court for parenting orders. It's important to note that attending FDR is generally a prerequisite before filing a court application, unless exemptions apply.

When determining parenting orders, the court's paramount consideration is the best interests of the child. Factors include:

• The benefit of the child having a meaningful relationship with both parents
• The need to protect the child from physical or psychological harm
• The child's views, considering their maturity and understanding
• The nature of the child's relationship with each parent and other significant individuals
• Each parent's ability to meet the child's needs

These considerations are outlined in the Family Law Act 1975.

Yes, parenting arrangements can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. Parents can mutually agree to alter the arrangements and document the changes in a new parenting plan or seek new consent orders. If an agreement cannot be reached, a parent may apply to the court to vary the existing orders, provided they can demonstrate a substantial change in circumstances.

An Independent Children's Lawyer (ICL) is appointed by the court to represent the child's best interests in complex parenting disputes. The ICL's duties include:

• Gathering relevant information about the child's situation
• Ensuring the child's views are presented to the court
• Making independent assessments and recommendations regarding the child's welfare

The ICL acts impartially and provides the court with insights to assist in decision-making.

As of May 6, 2024, significant amendments to the Family Law Act 1975 have been implemented. Key changes include:

• Removal of the presumption of equal shared parental responsibility
• Introduction of a simplified list of factors for courts to consider when determining the best interests of the child
• Enhanced recognition of family and domestic violence in parenting matters

These reforms aim to prioritize the safety and well-being of children in family law proceedings.

The best interests of the child is the central principle guiding all decisions in family law regarding children. It ensures that any arrangements or orders made prioritize the child's welfare, safety, and developmental needs above all else. This principle is enshrined in the Family Law Act 1975.