A Layman's Guide to the Family Law Amendment (Shared Parental Responsibility) Act 2006

Introduction

On 1 July 2006, some major changes to the family law system, made by the Australian Government, come into effect. If you are a parent and are separating from your partner, you need to be aware of the new laws and their impact on you.

The Family Law Amendment (Shared Parental Responsibility) Act 2006 marks a major cultural shift in the family law system and places an increased focus on the rights of children to have a meaningful relationship with both their parents and to be protected from harm. The law also encourages parents to equally share responsibility for their children, after separation.

In addition to changing the law, the Government is introducing a range of services designed to help families to deal co-operatively and practically with relationship difficulties and separations. In particular, Family Relationship Centres will be established across Australia to provide advice and assistance on managing family relationships.

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