Children & Parenting Arrangements —
Putting Your Child’s Best Interests First
Experienced Family Lawyers
HELPING YOU NAVIGATE CUSTODY AD PARENTING MATTERS ACROSS BRISBANE AND THE SUNSHINE COAST
When relationships break down, one of the most important—and often emotional—issues to resolve is parenting arrangements for children. At KLM Solicitors, we’re here to guide you through the legal process with clarity, compassion, and a focus on what matters most: your child’s wellbeing.
What Are Parenting Arrangements?
Parenting arrangements (commonly referred to as child custody) set out how separated parents will care for their children. This includes decisions around:
Where the child will live
Time spent with each parent
Education and medical care
Religious and cultural upbringing
Communication between the child and each parent
In Australia, the law does not use the terms "custody" or "access" anymore. Instead, it focuses on parental responsibility and spending meaningful time with both parents, where safe and appropriate, taking into account each individual families needs.
The Legal Framework in Australia
Under the Family Law Act 1975, the best interests of the child are the paramount consideration. This means that:
Children have the right to a meaningful relationship with both parents
Children must be protected from harm, abuse, or neglect and domestic and family violence
Parental conflict should be minimised
Unless there are concerns around safety or wellbeing including domestic violence, the court often encourages shared parenting responsibility and time spent with both parents.
How We Can Help
At KLM Solicitors, family law solicitors assist clients with:
NEGOTIATING PARENTING PLANS AND AGREEMENTS
FORMALISING ARRANGEMENTS THROUGH CONSENT ORDERS
REPRESENTING PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS IN FAMILY COURT PROCEEDINGS
URGENT APPLICATIONS INVOLVING SAFETY OR RELOCATION
MATTERS INVOLVING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OR RISK TO CHILDREN
Whether you want to reach a cooperative agreement or need strong representation in complex disputes, we provide strategic, child-focused legal advice every step of the way.
Parenting Plans vs Court Orders
We help parents understand their options:
Parenting Plan: A written agreement between parents, not legally enforceable
Consent Orders: Court-approved arrangements that are legally binding
Parenting Orders: Court-decided arrangements when parents can’t agree
We’ll work with you to choose the most appropriate path for your family.
