- A child is at the centre of all decision-making.
- When making decisions about a child in family law disputes, the child’s best interest is the primary consideration.
- Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of a child is the highest priority.
- A child has a right to express a view about what is happening in their lives and what they would like to happen, but also has a right not to express a view.
- A child should be given the opportunity to express their view, and when doing so should be informed about whether or not their views can be kept confidential.
- A child must be treated with dignity and respect at all times and their views must be listened to and respectfully considered.
- A child must be provided with all the information that is relevant and appropriate in a way that is suitable for the child’s age, maturity, abilities, gender and culture.
- All physical and online environments provided to a child must be child focussed and promote their safety and well-being.
- All professionals who have direct contact with children must have the necessary skills and expertise to play their role.
- A child should have access to appropriate mechanisms to give feedback about the professionals and services they encounter.
This Charter reflects the commitment of Australian family law courts to create a culture and environment where children are more consciously placed at the front and centre of decision-making, in a way that best promotes their safety and well-being.
This Charter is intended to guide practice and behaviour by articulating in a clear, concise and accessible way, the family law courts’ commitment to children who are the subject of family law disputes.
The paramount consideration guiding all decision-making in family law parenting matters is the best interests of children, but this principle extends beyond the way cases are decided. All people and services interacting with children involved in family law cases have a fundamental obligation to place the child at the centre of their processes and decisions.
