- Information for...
The schemeCSA's plain English law & policy guide
Access 2,300 support services for separated families
Parenting issues when separating
My family is separating, what now?
Even though you are separating, you are both still parents and the most important people in your children's lives. You will be parents for life...maybe even grandparents!
Stress and grief can make it hard to make good parenting decisions and it is essential that both of you manage your own wellbeing as well as any conflict between the two of you for your kids sake. It's not separation but ongoing conflict that hurts kids in the long term so maintaining a workable relationship with your ex is definitely worth the effort for you and your children's long-term wellbeing.
You will need to start by deciding how you are going to look after your kids. Remember it is usually best for the kids if the new parenting arrangements make as few changes to their daily routine as possible.
There are services like mediation, that can help you with parenting questions and other issues.
What if we still can't agree?
There are services available to help you negotiate and mediate with the other parent. Some of these include Family Relationship Centres and the Family Court of Australia. Remember, parents usually make the best decisions for their children. A legal battle can be costly, stressful and take a long time—and you might not get the result you expect.
Making your decisions together, without going to court, will usually be less stressful and better for the children.
Family relationships services
| Centacare: | 1300 138 070 |
| Family Services Australia: | 1300 365 859 |
| Relationships Australia: | 1300 364 277 |
| Family Relationship Advice Line: | 1800 050 321 |
Other resources
Booklets
Me and my Kids - Parenting from a distance
(PDF 485k)
What about Me - Taking care of yourself
(PDF 2.9M)
Me and my Money - Practical money ideas
(PDF 691k)
Me, my kids and my Ex - Building a
workable relationship with the other parent (PDF 836k)
Me and My Changing Family - Moving forward
(PDF 1.02M)
CR Rom
Dealing with Separation - Experiences, tips and
tools
