Family Court Media Release – Statement from the Hon Will Alstergren – Parenting Orders and COVID-19

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We are receiving many inquiries from parents and carers about compliance with parenting orders in light of the current unprecedented Covid 19 crisis. Parents and carers are clearly concerned about exposing their children and themselves to comply with existing orders.

The Family Court and the Federal Circuit Court have issued a statement about Covid 19 and Parenting orders:

Media Release – Statement from the Hon Will Alstergren – Parenting Orders and COVID-19

The Courts clearly recognise the complexity behind compliance with Court parenting orders considering the risk of exposure to Covid 19. One the one hand, the Courts expect that parties will comply with parenting orders. On the other, sometimes it would be very difficult,, if not impossible to comply with parenting orders.

The statement encourages parties to communicate about their ability to comply and to attempt to find a sensible and reasonable solution always considering as the paramount consideration the best interest of the children involved. If they do come to an agreement, it is recommended that it be confirmed in writing even if by text or email or perhaps via WhatsApp. New or varied arrangements may be formalised legally by entering into consent orders which may be lodged with eh Courts electronically. The Courts will then make the orders and make them available to the parties electronically.

The Courts continue to operate. Hearings are taking place often by telephone and, on occasions, face to face following strict social distancing requirements and protocols.

Should you have a query about compliance with parenting orders in light of the current Covid 19 crisis, please contact the

Family Law Team on +61 2 6206 1300

or use our contact form