Child Custody Application Process

Summary

To file for child custody in Australia, complete the application form on the Family Court website, lodge it online via the Commonwealth Courts Portal, and pay the filing fee or apply for a fee waiver if eligible. The Family Law Act 1975 governs custody matters, focusing on the childs best interests. Both parents are encouraged to share responsibilities. Consider gathering evidence to support your case and attending mediation to reach an agreement.

Full Conversation

Family law problem
Hi ****, I'd be happy to assist you with your family law issue. Could you please provide more details about your situation? Additionally, where are you located? This will help me provide you with the most relevant information.
Parenting matter
Hi ****, thank you for sharing that. To better assist you with your parenting matter, could you please let me know your location? This will help me provide relevant legal information specific to your area.
Australia
Thank you, ****. Here is some general information about parenting matters under Australian family law:
- The Family Law Act * is the primary legislation.
- The best interests of the child are the paramount consideration.
- Both parents are encouraged to share responsibility for the child's care.
- Parenting orders can be made by the Family Court of Australia.
Would you need help with specific aspects like custody, visitation, or child support?
Yes
Thank you for confirming, ****. Could you please specify which aspect you need help with: custody, visitation, or child support? This will help me provide more relevant information.
Custody
Thank you for specifying, ****. Here is some general information about child custody under Australian family law:
- The Family Law Act * governs custody matters.
- Custody is referred to as "parental responsibility."
- The court considers the best interests of the child.
- Both parents are encouraged to share responsibilities.
Do you have any specific questions or need details about the legal process?
Yes want child to live with me
Hi ****, thanks for sharing your situation. To help you further, could you please let me know if there's an existing custody arrangement or court order in place?
No
Hi ****,
Thank you for the information. Here are some steps you can take to seek custody of your child:
- File an application for parenting orders in the Family Court of Australia.
- Gather evidence to support that living with you is in the best interests of the child.
- Attend mediation with the other parent to try to reach an agreement.
Would you like more details on how to file an application or what evidence to gather?
How do I file
Hi ****,
To file an application for parenting orders in the Family Court of Australia, follow these steps:
- Complete the application form available on the Family Court website.
- Lodge the form online through the Commonwealth Courts Portal.
- Pay the filing fee or apply for a fee waiver if eligible.
Would you like more details on any of these steps?