Several changes were introduced to the Family Law Act. These changes are effective as of June 2025. We’ll discuss these changes to the Family Law Act and their Impact on Parenting. These changes ensure the best interests of children are prioritized. Here’s an overview of the key amendments and their implications for parenting arrangements.
Changes to the Family Law Act and their Impact on Parenting
Children’s Contact Services (CCS)
The amendments enable the Australian Government to establish accreditation rules for Children’s Contact Services (CCS). These rules will ensure that only accredited CCS can be referred by courts, enhancing the safety and quality of services.
Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)
Before applying for a parenting order under Part VII, parties must first attend Family Dispute Resolution (FDR). Then, they must obtain a certificate from an accredited practitioner. However, exemptions apply in cases involving urgency, family violence, child abuse, or other specified circumstances. Importantly, the court now holds clear authority to reject any application that doesn’t meet these requirements.
Attendance at Divorce Proceedings
Changes to section 98A of the Family Law Act ensure that divorcing parties follow the same court attendance requirements, regardless of whether they file jointly or alone, and whether they have children. Now, the court can hear sole divorce applications without requiring attendance
Commonwealth Information Orders (CIOs)
Additionally, the amendments make it clear that Commonwealth Information Orders (CIOs) must require departments or agencies to include any details about actual or threatened violence when providing information on a missing child’s location. This gives the court access to critical information about risks to the child or their family members.
Jurisdiction of State Courts
The amendments clarify how provisions work to allow state or territory courts to be given jurisdiction to make family law parenting orders. This change ensures that state courts can exercise the same authority under Part VII of the Family Law Act as federal courts.
Protecting Sensitive Information
The amendments empower parties to actively protect certain confidential communications, known as ‘protected confidences.’ These include communications with health services, specialist family violence services, and specialist sexual violence services. When necessary, the court can issue directions to shield this evidence if disclosing it would likely cause harm to a party or child involved in the proceedings.
Conclusion
The changes to the Family Law Act aim to improve how parenting matters are handled by enhancing the safety and quality of services, ensuring parties meet dispute resolution requirements, and protecting sensitive information. Ultimately, these amendments prioritize the best interests of children and create a more supportive, fair process for families navigating parenting disputes.
Seeking Legal Advice
Navigating a parenting matter can be complex and requires a thoughtful approach. Whether you’re going through a separation or facing challenges with parenting, My Legal Crunch Lawyers can help. So, reach out today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced lawyers.
Notice: My Legal Crunch is not a legal aid service provider, save for acting as an Independent Children’s Lawyer by Court Appointment.
