- (07) 3378 8500
- [email protected]
- 1/2059 Moggill Rd, Kenmore, QLD
- Ipswich by Appointment
When parents separate, the biggest worry is usually the children. Where will they live? How often will they see each parent? Who makes decisions about school and health? At Ipswich Family Lawyers, we help Ipswich parents work out parenting arrangements that are safe, practical and focused on what is best for their children. We give you clear advice about your options, whether you can agree with the other parent or need the court to decide.
Our initial consultation gives you time to talk through your situation with a family lawyer and leave with clear, practical advice on your next steps. Call (07) 3378 8500 or send us a message to arrange a time.
Most people say “custody”, but Australian family law talks about who a child lives with, who they spend time with, and who has parental responsibility for major long-term decisions. These arrangements are set out in a parenting plan or in parenting orders made under the Family Law Act 1975.
The law changed on 6 May 2024. There is no longer a presumption that parents should have equal shared parental responsibility, and the court no longer starts from the idea of equal time. Every decision is based on the best interests of the child, with a strong focus on safety.
When deciding what is best for a child, the court looks at things like the child’s safety, their views, their developmental and emotional needs, each parent’s ability to meet those needs, and the benefit of a relationship with both parents where it is safe.
Parenting cases are heard by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. Before you can apply for parenting orders, you usually need to try family dispute resolution (mediation) and get a certificate from a registered practitioner. There are exceptions, for example where there has been family violence or the matter is urgent.
Many parents never need to go to court. If you can reach agreement, it can be written up as a parenting plan, or made legally binding through consent orders approved by the court.
At Ipswich Family Lawyers, we explain how the law applies to your family, what the court is likely to focus on, and which option suits your situation best.
We listen first, then give you practical advice in plain language. Here is how we can assist:
We are proud to support families across Ipswich, from Raceview and Redbank Plains to Springfield and Yamanto.
We understand that no two families are the same. Our team takes time to learn about your situation so we can give advice that fits your needs.
Here is what sets us apart:
Contact us today for a confidential consultation. We’re here to listen, understand your needs, and guide you toward a brighter future for you and your loved ones.
Every family is different, but most parenting matters follow a similar path. Here is what usually happens at each stage.
Talk to a family lawyer early, ideally before you agree to anything. We will explain your rights and responsibilities, what arrangements may suit your children, and what to do if you have safety concerns.
Bring any messages, details of current arrangements, and school or medical information that may be relevant.
Most parents must attempt mediation through a registered family dispute resolution practitioner before going to court. Many families reach agreement at this stage.
If mediation is not suitable or does not work, the practitioner issues a certificate so you can apply to court.
If you agree, we can prepare a parenting plan or consent orders. A parenting plan is flexible but not legally enforceable. Consent orders are approved by the court and must be followed.
If you cannot agree, or there are safety concerns, we can file an application for parenting orders. The court may make interim orders while the case continues, and many cases still settle before a final hearing.
Keep the children out of it: Do not involve them in adult conflict or ask them to choose sides.
Communicate in writing: Keep messages with the other parent short, respectful and in writing where possible.
Keep a record: Note time spent with the children and any missed handovers.
Put safety first: If you feel unsafe, call 000 in an emergency and talk to us about protection orders.
Parenting is often only one part of separating. We also help with:
Not automatically. Since 6 May 2024 there is no starting presumption of equal shared parental responsibility or equal time. Arrangements are based on what is in the child’s best interests, which may or may not mean equal time.
There is no set age in Australian law. The court considers a child’s views and gives them more weight as the child gets older and more mature, but the final decision is based on the child’s best interests.
In most cases, yes. You need a certificate from a family dispute resolution practitioner before applying for parenting orders, unless an exception applies, such as family violence, child abuse or urgency.
A parenting plan is a written agreement signed and dated by both parents. It is not legally enforceable. Parenting orders are made by the court, either by consent or after a hearing, and must be followed.
If moving would make it harder for the children to spend time with the other parent, get advice first. You may need the other parent’s agreement or a court order before you relocate.
You don’t have to work out parenting arrangements on your own. Whether you and the other parent get along or things are difficult, our Ipswich family lawyers will help you find a way forward that puts your children first.
Call Ipswich Family Lawyers today or send us a message to book your first consultation.
Our initial consultation gives you time to talk through your situation with a family lawyer and leave with clear, practical advice on your next steps. Call (07) 3378 8500 or send us a message to arrange a time.
