Create a Parenting Plan That Actually Works for Your Family
A clear, written agreement that puts your children's wellbeing first, reached together, not decided for you.
Parenting Plans
Parenting Plans are written agreements that help separated or divorced parents outline how they will care for and support their children.
What Is a Parenting Plan?
A Parenting Plan is a written agreement between parents outlining how they'll share parenting responsibilities. It typically covers daily care and living arrangements, handover locations and times, special occasions like birthdays and holidays, school and activity schedules, time with extended family, health and medical needs, financial contributions beyond child support, and how you'll communicate and resolve issues as they come up.
Who Creates the Plan?
Usually, both parents work together to create a Parenting Plan, though other people who matter to your child, such as grandparents or step-parents, can be involved too.
A Parenting Plan isn't legally binding on its own, but it can later be converted into a Consent Order, which is enforceable by the courts.
Is It Flexible?
Yes. Parenting Plans are meant to evolve as your child's needs change, and as long as both parents agree, it can be updated at any time. If challenges come up along the way, we're here to help you work through them calmly.
Creating a Parenting Plan together isn't just about the practical details, it's the groundwork for cooperative, long-term co-parenting that lets your child thrive.
The best interests of the children
Under the Family Law Act 1975, the primary focus of any Parenting Plan is your children's best interests, so every decision should support their emotional, physical, and developmental needs. The law encourages parents to reach agreements themselves rather than relying on the court system, and treats court as a last resort, only when it's genuinely necessary. Reducing conflict is central to this, both for your children's wellbeing now and for the environment they grow up in
Does it have to be in writing?
To be recognised under the Family Law Act 1975, a Parenting Plan must be written, voluntary, free from pressure or coercion, and signed and dated by both parents.
Some parents start with an interim Parenting Plan, a temporary solution while they navigate separation, then agree on something more permanent once other matters are settled.
A thoughtful Parenting Plan lets you focus on what matters most, giving your children the best possible footing through this transition and beyond.
So why FDR?
At the heart of this process is Family Dispute Resolution (FDR), where a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) works closely with you to create a plan that genuinely fits your child's needs. This child-focused approach keeps parenting decisions centred on what's best for your children, helping you navigate the complexities of co-parenting through collaboration rather than conflict.
At Empowered Resolutions, we focus on open communication, reducing stress, and finding practical solutions that work for everyone involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both parents have to agree to a Parenting Plan?
Yes, a Parenting Plan only works if both parents genuinely agree to its terms. If you're finding it hard to reach agreement directly, Family Dispute Resolution can help you work through the issues together.
What happens if we can't agree on a Parenting Plan?
That's alright, this is exactly what Family Dispute Resolution is designed to help with. If mediation doesn't lead to an agreement, we may be able to issue a Section 60I Certificate, which is generally required before applying to court for parenting orders.
Do we need a lawyer to create a Parenting Plan?
No, but we'd always recommend getting independent legal advice, particularly before signing anything or converting your plan into a Consent Order.