Parents, guardians and caregivers

Responsibilities and dispute processes under the Care of Children Act and other laws

What this chapter covers

• About the Family Court
  An overview of the Family Court and its processes, including the types of cases it deals with
• Guardianship of children
  Who a child’s guardians are, the responsibilities of guardians and the different types of guardians
• Care arrangements when parents have separated
  Making your own agreement for day-to-day care (custody) of your children if you’re splitting up, and going to the Family Court for a parenting order if you can’t reach an agreement
• Relocation disputes and international child abduction
  Resolving disputes with your ex-partner about where your child will live and what you can do if you’re worried your ex wants to take your child out of the country
• Child support
  When a parent is responsible for paying child support and how the amount is calculated
• Paternity
  How paternity (fatherhood) can be legally decided
• Abortion (“Termination”)
  The rules around when you can get an abortion, including who makes the decision and how
• Adoption
  Who can adopt and be adopted, the laws around consent and the court process for getting an adoption order
• Other resources
  Where to get more information