Parenting plans are written agreements made between parents after separation.
They set out how a child will be cared for, including the time the child will spend with each parent, and other parenting matters such as how decisions will be made.
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Family Agreements
A family agreement is a written document that outlines the expectations, rules, and responsibilities within a family. It serves as a tool to enhance communication, set boundaries, and promote harmony within the household.
By establishing a family agreement, each member can have a clear understanding of their roles and contributions to the family unit.
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Parenting plans are written agreements created between parents and caregivers following separation, detailing the care of the child, including time spent with each parent and other parenting issues like decision-making processes.
While parenting plans are not filed with the Family Court and lack legal enforceability, they serve as a useful record of agreed terms, reducing the likelihood of future misunderstandings.
They also offer flexibility in childcare arrangements, as they can be readily amended.
For those seeking a legally binding agreement, applying to the Family Court for consent orders is an option. Consent orders are written agreements that have received court approval.
Parenting Plans
A parenting plan can provide numerous benefits for both parents and children.
​​A detailed plan reduces misunderstandings and disputes by setting clear expectations and responsibilities.
Provides Stability:
A consistent routine offers children security and stability, helping them know what to expect.
Focuses on the Child’s Needs:
The plan prioritizes the child's best interests, catering to their physical and emotional needs.
Improves Communication:
The plan promotes better communication, encouraging parental cooperation and teamwork.
Acts as a Reference:
It serves as a useful reference for both parents to resolve future conflicts or questions.
Cost-Effective:
Developing a parenting plan is often less expensive and less stressful than court proceedings.
Flexibility:
plan can be customised to fit the family's unique needs and can be adjusted over time.
In essence, a parenting plan fosters a more peaceful co-parenting atmosphere, which is advantageous for all parties involved.
Making an agreement
​Separating couples will typically need to make decisions about the care arrangements for children and how to divide property.
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Find out different ways that you can try to make an agreement with your ex-partner, without going to court, and the types of agreements that can be made. ​
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As a parenting plan is not legally enforceable, if a parent is not following the plan it cannot be enforced by the Family Court.
However, if a case is started in the Family Court, the court will take the parenting plan into consideration when deciding what orders to make.
How to write a parenting plan?
A parenting plan should be:
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Created by the child's parents
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Written down
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Dated
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Signed by both parents
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Agreed upon freely by both parents (without threats, pressure, or force)
Parents may alter an existing parenting plan by agreeing to and creating a new one.
What can be included in a parenting plan?
Parents have the freedom to detail their wishes regarding their child's care and upbringing in their parenting plan.
The plan can address various aspects, including:
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The child/ren's living arrangements and the time spent with each parent
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The involvement of significant others in the child's life, like grandparents
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The division of parental responsibility and decision-making, such as educational choice
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The allocation of special events like birthdays and significant religious or cultural festivities
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Strategies for resolving potential future disputes between the parents.
Contact
Everyone needs help sometimes. Anglicare WA is here to support you without judgement.
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Anglicare WA offers a wide range of services in multiple locations across WA, we’re never too far away.
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If you’re not sure where to go, call us on 1300 11 44 46.