How To Make a Parenting Plan

What Is a Parenting Plan?

A Parenting Plan is a written agreement between parents that sets out the arrangements for their children following separation.

A Parenting Plan can cover a wide range of issues relating to a child's care, welfare and development. It allows parents to create flexible arrangements that suit their family's unique circumstances.

Unlike Parenting Orders made by the Court, a Parenting Plan is not legally enforceable. However, it can be a valuable tool to help parents manage co-parenting arrangements and may be considered by the Court if future disputes arise.

Why Should You Have a Parenting Plan?

A Parenting Plan provides certainty and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings between parents.

Having parenting arrangements clearly documented can help:

• Minimise conflict;
• Establish routine and consistency for children;
• Clarify each parent's responsibilities;
• Reduce confusion about future arrangements;
• Avoid unnecessary Court proceedings; and
• Provide a framework for resolving future issues.

Most importantly, a Parenting Plan encourages parents to focus on what is in the best interests of their children.

How to Make a Parenting Plan

Step 1: Discuss the Children's Needs

Before preparing a Parenting Plan, both parents should carefully consider the needs of their children.

Factors to consider may include:

• The children's ages;
• School commitments;
• Extracurricular activities;
• Medical needs;
• Family relationships;
• Cultural considerations; and
• The practicality of proposed arrangements.

Every family is different, which means parenting arrangements should be tailored to the specific needs of the children involved.

Step 2: Agree on Living Arrangements

One of the most important aspects of a Parenting Plan is determining when the children will spend time with each parent.

You should consider:

• Where the children will live;
• When the children will spend time with the other parent;
• Weekday arrangements;
• Weekend arrangements;
• School holiday arrangements;
• Special occasions such as birthdays; and
• Christmas and other significant holidays.

The more detailed the Parenting Plan is, the less likely disagreements will arise in the future.

Step 3: Decide How Major Decisions Will Be Made

A Parenting Plan should address how parents will make important long-term decisions affecting the children.

This may include decisions relating to:

• Education;
• Medical treatment;
• Religion;
• Extracurricular activities; and
• Travel arrangements.

Clearly outlining decision-making responsibilities can help avoid future disputes.

Step 4: Include Communication Arrangements

Many Parenting Plans also include provisions dealing with communication.

For example, parents may agree about:

• Telephone calls;
• Video calls;
• Communication during holidays;
• Emergency contact procedures; and
• Communication between the parents regarding the children.

These arrangements can help maintain positive relationships and ensure important information is shared effectively.

Step 5: Put the Agreement in Writing

Once parenting arrangements have been agreed upon, the Parenting Plan should be recorded in writing.

To be recognised as a Parenting Plan under the Family Law Act, the document should:

• Be in writing;
• Be dated; and
• Be signed by both parents.

Although there is no strict format, it is important that the Parenting Plan is clear and easy to understand.

What Should a Parenting Plan Include?

Every Parenting Plan will be different, but common topics include:

• Living arrangements;
• Time with each parent;
• School holiday arrangements;
• Special occasions;
• Communication arrangements;
• Travel arrangements;
• Healthcare decisions;
• Schooling decisions; and
• Processes for resolving disagreements.

The more comprehensive the Parenting Plan is, the more useful it will be in preventing future misunderstandings.

Can a Lawyer Help With a Parenting Plan?

A family lawyer can assist by:

• Providing advice about parenting arrangements;
• Drafting or reviewing a Parenting Plan;
• Identifying potential issues before they arise;
• Negotiating arrangements with the other parent;
• Converting an agreement into Consent Orders where appropriate; and
• Advising on your rights and obligations as a parent.

Seeking legal advice before signing a Parenting Plan can help ensure that the arrangements are workable and in the best interests of the children.

Need Help With Parenting Arrangements?

If you are working through parenting arrangements after separation and want assistance creating a Parenting Plan, the experienced family lawyers at Clarity Legal Group can help.

Whether you are negotiating parenting arrangements, attending family dispute resolution or considering Consent Orders, our team can provide practical advice tailored to your family's circumstances and help you move forward with confidence.

Contact us for more information or to book a reduced fee initial consult.

This information does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with a lawyer to obtain independent legal advice relevant to your situation.