{"id":114833,"date":"2023-09-01T01:27:24","date_gmt":"2023-08-31T15:27:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/timesnewsgroup.com.au\/surfcoasttimes\/?p=114833"},"modified":"2023-08-31T15:35:47","modified_gmt":"2023-08-31T05:35:47","slug":"parenting-after-separation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/timesnewsgroup.com.au\/surfcoasttimes\/living\/parenting-after-separation\/","title":{"rendered":"Parenting after separation"},"content":{"rendered":"

After the breakdown of a relationship, one of the key concerns for parents is implementing appropriate care arrangements for their children.<\/p>\n

For those wondering if there is a “standard” or “default” parenting arrangement that can be put in place, the short answer is there’s not.<\/p>\n

There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to care arrangements for children. Each particular child’s needs and circumstances should be considered and any parenting arrangements that are implemented should be made based on what is in the best interests of that child.<\/p>\n

The Family Law Act 1975 sets out that the “best interests” of a child is the paramount consideration when making any parenting orders.<\/p>\n

So what does ‘best interests’ mean?<\/p>\n

Under the Act, in determining a child’s best interests, the Court must consider:<\/p>\n

(a) the benefit of a child having a meaningful relationship with both parents; and<\/p>\n

(b) the need to protect a child from harm from being subjected or exposed to abuse, neglect or family violence.<\/p>\n

Of those two considerations, the second is given greater weight.<\/p>\n

There are also additional considerations for the Court to take into account, including:<\/p>\n