What Is a Parenting Plan?
If you are separating in Western Australia and need to work through arrangements for your children, a parenting plan can help record practical agreements in writing.
A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents dealing with the care, welfare and development of their children after separation.
This guide explains how parenting plans work in Western Australia, what they should include, and when consent orders may be the more suitable option.
A parenting plan can deal with:
- living arrangements
- time with each parent
- school holiday arrangements
- communication between households
- decision-making for major issues
- transport and logistics
- review and dispute resolution processes
Is a Parenting Plan Legally Binding in WA?
A parenting plan is not legally binding in the same way as consent orders. However, it can still be a useful written record where both parents are willing to cooperate and follow the agreement.
What Should a Parenting Plan Include?
A useful parenting plan should clearly deal with:
- regular care arrangements
- school holiday arrangements
- special occasions
- communication and information sharing
- education and medical decisions
- transport and changeovers
- review processes
When a Parenting Plan May Work Well
A parenting plan may work well where:
- the parents can cooperate reasonably well
- the arrangements are not heavily disputed
- flexibility is useful
- both parents are likely to follow the agreement voluntarily
When Consent Orders May Be Better
Consent orders may be better where:
- enforceability is important
- the issues are more complex
- conflict is ongoing
- there is concern that the agreement may not be followed
Parenting Plans and Mediation in WA
Mediation is often one of the most effective ways to create a parenting plan. It helps parents focus on practical arrangements and reduce unnecessary conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to go to court to make a parenting plan?
No. A parenting plan is a private written agreement.
Can a parenting plan be updated later?
Yes. Parenting plans are flexible and can change as the children’s needs change.
Is mediation required before court in WA?
In many parenting matters, parties are generally required to attempt family dispute resolution before court, subject to exceptions.
Speak with Mediations Australia
A parenting plan can help WA parents record child-focused arrangements after separation in a practical and flexible way.
If you need help reaching agreement, Mediations Australia can help you work through parenting issues in mediation.
