Can Quillio draft parenting plans?
Yes. I draft parenting plans under sections 63B–63C of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth). A parenting plan is not a consent order — it is a signed written agreement between the parents. I produce plans that cover parental responsibility, the time the children spend with each parent, communication, decisions about education, health, and other practical arrangements.
What a parenting plan covers
The essentials: parental responsibility (joint or sole for specific decisions), where the children live, the time they spend with each parent during term, holidays, and special occasions, communication between the children and each parent, how major decisions will be made, and how disputes will be handled. I also include practical clauses on travel, relocation, and changeover.
Parenting plan versus consent order
A parenting plan is not enforceable in the same way as a court order — it is relevant to subsequent court proceedings but not directly enforceable. If you want enforceability, you need consent orders. I flag this distinction clearly in the plan itself so the parents understand.
Child-centred language
I draft parenting plans in language that focuses on the children rather than the parents' rights. This reflects the objects of Part VII of the Family Law Act and usually helps parents stick to the plan.
Step-by-step
- Provide the instructions. Parties, children (ages and names), proposed arrangements, and any contested points.
- Choose the scope. Pick a full plan or a short-form agreement covering only specific issues.
- Review the draft. I return a structured plan with child-centred language.
- Finalise and sign. Parents sign and date — no witnessing is legally required, but I recommend it.
Common issues
- Parenting plans signed after a consent order supersede the order — I flag this
- Relocation clauses need careful drafting — I draft them conservatively
- Where family violence has been alleged, a parenting plan may not be appropriate — I flag this for your judgement
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