The Chief Justice of the Family Court and Federal Circuit Court of Australia has issued a media release about Parenting Orders and COVID-19.
You can read the media release here:
http://www.familycourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fcoaweb/about/news/mr260320
The key points of the statements can be summarised as follows:
- Parents must continue to act in the best interests if their children. Parents should act sensibly and reasonably;
- Parents are expected to continue to comply with their current parenting orders, and if circumstances do not provide for the usual arrangements to persist parents should communicate with each other to make alternate, more appropriate, arrangements;
- If parents are able to reach an alternate arrangement they should record it in writing where possible; and
- If parents can’t agree they should seek appropriate assistance, (e.g. the Family Relationships Advice Line 1800 050 321 or from a solicitor).
During this period the Court will primarily hear only urgent matters, and further delays are expected. Where possible parents should mediate and negotiate arrangements between themselves or with the assistance of solicitors.
Many states have also closed their borders, which may impact parents who work or live interstate. Some states, such as Queensland, allow parties to apply for exemptions to the quarantine restrictions on ‘compassionate grounds’ or to comply with Family Court Orders.
Our lawyers and support staff are fully equipped to work from home to ensure that we can continue to provide our clients with the highest level of service throughout this period.
If you are an existing or prospective client and have any queries or concerns regarding the impact of COVID-19 on your parenting arrangements, please contact one of our team of top family lawyers on (03) 9804 0035.
Back to News