What Is a Parenting Plan?
If you are separating in Queensland and trying to put practical arrangements in place for your children, a parenting plan can be a useful starting point.
A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents that records arrangements for the care, welfare and development of their children after separation.
This guide explains how parenting plans work in Queensland, what they should include, and when parents may be better served by consent orders instead.
A parenting plan can deal with:
- where the children live
- when they spend time with each parent
- school holiday arrangements
- communication arrangements
- education and health decisions
- transport and changeovers
- how disagreements will be handled
Is a Parenting Plan Legally Binding in Queensland?
A parenting plan is not legally binding in the same way as consent orders. However, it can still be a useful written agreement where parents are able to cooperate and want a practical, flexible framework.
What Should a Parenting Plan Include?
A useful parenting plan should include:
- regular care arrangements
- school holiday arrangements
- special occasions
- communication between households
- decision-making for major issues
- practical logistics like transport and changeovers
- review processes
When a Parenting Plan May Work Well
A parenting plan may work well where:
- the parents can communicate reasonably well
- there is enough trust to follow the agreement
- the arrangements need flexibility over time
- the issues are not heavily contested
When Consent Orders May Be Better
Consent orders may be more appropriate where:
- the arrangements need to be enforceable
- conflict is ongoing
- there are more complex issues
- one parent wants greater certainty
Parenting Plans and Mediation in Queensland
Mediation can be one of the most effective ways to create a parenting plan. It helps parents stay focused on practical arrangements and the best interests of their children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a parenting plan be changed later?
Yes. Parenting plans are flexible and can be updated.
Do I need to go to court to have a parenting plan?
No. A parenting plan is a private written agreement.
Is mediation required before court in Queensland?
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 Queensland parents record practical arrangements after separation in a clear and child-focused way.
If you need help reaching agreement, Mediations Australia can help you work through parenting issues in mediation.
