Part VII of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) ("FLA") governs the making of parenting orders in relation to all children virtually irrespective of their origin and status of family. The Family Court of Australia, Federal Magistrates Court and other courts with jurisdiction under the FLA including State Magistrates Court or Local Courts have jurisdiction under the FLA to make parenting orders.
However, the concept of parenting orders in Australia has evolved since the commencement of the FLA on 6 January 1976, with the concept of parental responsibility being introduced into Australia through the Family Law Reform Act 1995.
Partner, Geoff Wilson discusses how these laws have changed over time, as well as the legal requirements of both parties. This paper was authored for the IAML Annual Meeting - Singapore, 2012.