What is parental responsibility?

Under the Family Law Act each parent has ‘parental responsibility’ for their children unless a court order states otherwise.

Parental responsibility involves responsibility regarding your children’s long term welfare, care and development. Where your child goes to school, what religion they adhere to and whether they should undergo certain medical treatment are decisions that are covered by parental responsibility.

If you and your former partner cannot come to an agreement over an issue of parental responsibility your solicitor will be able to help you begin the negotiation process and hopefully reach an agreement. If you are still unable to come to an agreement after alternate dispute resolution you can apply to the court to make a decision regarding the particular issue in contention or to decide whether both parents should maintain parental responsibility.