All legal information
Children and family law
Looking after my children after I’ve separated from the other parent
When parents separate, the law requires them to focus on what is best for their children and to try to reach an agreement about how to care for their kids.
If parents agree, they can record their arrangements in:
- a parenting plan (not legally enforceable), or
- consent orders, which can be approved by a court and made legally binding.
If parents cannot agree, they usually need to go to family dispute resolution. If this still doesn’t work, a parent can apply to the family law courts for parenting orders.
Support services if you are experiencing violence
Find support services if you are experiencing family violence. They are available across Victoria.
