The End of Equal Time Presumptions

‍One of the most significant changes is the removal of the previous presumption of equal shared parental responsibility. This change addresses widespread misconceptions that parents were automatically entitled to equal time with their children.

What this means for families:

• Courts now focus exclusively on the child’s best interests when making parenting orders
• Reduced likelihood of unsafe arrangements being ordered
• Less lengthy litigation over parenting time
• Greater emphasis on what actually works for each individual child

Increased Focus on Child Safety

The reforms prioritise child safety above all else, with courts now required to consider:

• The child’s physical and emotional safety
• Protection from family violence
• The child’s developmental needs
• Each parent’s capacity to provide a safe environment