Following separation, parents need to determine what the living and other arrangements for their children will be. If, despite counselling they have been unable to reach an agreement, parents are entitled to apply to the Court to determine parenting issues.
When determining parenting issues, the paramount consideration for the Court is the best interests of the children. At all times parents are encouraged by the Court to try to look to a resolution of the proceedings that best meets the interests of the children.
Parenting issues can include a broad range of matters, such as:
- who the children primarily live with;
- how much time the children spend with the other parent;
- arrangements for festive and special occasions;
- relocation of a child;
- overseas travel;
- international abduction of children.
Anyone with a sufficiently close connection to and interest in a child can seek a Parenting Order. Grandparents often seek Parenting Orders following a breakdown of the relationship between their adult child and the other parent.