When can I make an Application to the Court for Parenting Orders?

An Application can be issued in relation to the care of children at any time after separation, once the parties have attempted Family Dispute Resolution. There are some circumstances in which the Court does not require that the parties have attempted mediation prior to filing an Application. Those are cases where:

• There has been abuse of the child/children by one of the parties to proceedings or there would be a risk of abuse to the child if there were to be a delay in making the application; or
• There has been family violence by one of the parties to the proceedings or there is a risk of family violence by one of the parties to the proceedings.
• Where the matter is urgent.

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