What's happening?
Parenting arrangements cover where children live, how much time they spend with each parent, and how decisions about their care, welfare and development are made. Parents are generally encouraged to agree on these arrangements themselves, focusing on what is in the best interests of the children.
Arrangements can be informal, recorded in a parenting plan, or made binding as parenting orders, depending on what suits the family's circumstances and how much certainty is needed.
What could it mean for me?
- Arrangements can be tailored to a family's routine, work commitments and the children's needs
- Informal arrangements offer flexibility but aren't enforceable in the same way as orders
- Children's views may be relevant depending on their age and maturity
- Arrangements may need to be reviewed as children grow or circumstances change
What are my options?
- Negotiate arrangements directly with the other parent
- Attend family dispute resolution to work through disagreements
- Record agreed arrangements in a parenting plan
- Apply for parenting orders if a more formal or enforceable arrangement is needed
What happens next?
- Discuss your children's needs and routine with a family lawyer
- Attempt to negotiate arrangements with the other parent
- Consider family dispute resolution if discussions stall
- Formalise arrangements in a parenting plan or consent orders
How can MGE Lawyers help?
MGE Lawyers helps parents work through parenting arrangements, focusing on practical outcomes that reflect the children's best interests and each parent's circumstances.
Where agreement is difficult to reach, we can advise on dispute resolution options and, if necessary, court processes.