If you have already made parenting arrangements with your former partner and would like to have those arrangements turned into a Parenting Plan, this package is for you.

The process is simple:

Step 1: Contact Nicole by phone or email.

Step 2: Nicole will arrange an intake session (of up to 1 hour) with each parent separately to ensure an appropriate understanding of the relationships, identify any risks and confirmation of the parenting arrangements.

Step 3: Nicole will draft a Parenting Plan and provide a copy to both parents to review. Up to two draft amendments are included. Once both parents are satisfied, a signed copy will be provided to both parents for their records.

Package Cost: $400.00 + GST for the entire package (that’s $200 each).

What is a parenting plan?

A Parenting Plan is a voluntary agreement that is signed and dated by both parents that that covers the day to day responsibilities of each parent, the practical considerations of a child’s daily life, as well as how parents will agree & consult on important issues about their children.

The contents of a Parenting Plan are entirely dependent on your circumstances. They are a great way to formalise any agreement between the parents to avoid any mis-interpretation or confusion which can occur when verbal parenting arrangements are made between parents.

Key information to note when considering a parenting plan:

• A Parenting Plan can be changed at any time with both parents’ agreement.
• A Parenting Plan is not legally enforceable.
• Parenting Plans can be used as evidence in Court proceedings and may be referred to in any future Court proceedings.

Different parenting arrangements will suit different families and all arrangements should be made with consideration to the best interests of the child.

What is in the best interests of my child?

In Australia, there is no automatic right or presumption for “50/50” care of children. Any parenting arrangement is to be made in the best interests of the child.

What is considered when determining parenting arrangements in family law?

• Child’s need for a meaningful relationship with each parent;
• The nature of the relationship with each parent;
• The parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs;
• The child’s views (if appropriate);
• The child’s safety;
• The child’s right to enjoy their culture;
• The practicality/ expense of the child spending time with each parent; and
• Family violence or allegations of risk to harm of the child.

What are the most common types of parenting arrangements?

This is one of my most frequently asked questions.

Different parenting arrangements will suit different families and there is no one size fits all approach. What works for your family may not work for another.

As a reminder, there is no automatic right or presumption for “50/50” care of children.

The most common types of parenting plans tend to be:

• 2-2-3 schedule: where each parent spends equal time with their child by splitting alternating sets of days over a two week period.
• Equal time: week on/ week off with the child rotating 7 consecutive nights with each parent.
• Every alternative weekend and an alternate mid-week afternoon/evening/overnight.
• Child to live with one parenting and spend time with the other parent for either shorter visits or during school holidays or special occasions basis.

Additional Terms to Note:

1. This process is not intended to be legal advice and if you have any legal concerns, please seek independent legal advice prior to entering into a Parenting Plan or other Agreement.
2. This package does not entitle the parents to a Section 60i certificate as mediation was not attended.
3. The package is not appropriate for parents with a history of family or domestic violence or other risk issues. In those instances, we strongly suggest both parents seek legal advice before entering into a Parenting Arrangement.

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