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Child-Centered Solutions for Separated Parents
Arranging care for your children is often the most emotional and complex part of a relationship breakdown. In South Australia, parenting matters are governed by the Family Law Act 1975, recently updated to place the best interests of the child at the center of every decision.
At Matti Lamb & Associates, our Adelaide-based lawyers specialise in navigating these changes. We provide practical, child-focused solutions that protect your children’s safety and wellbeing while safeguarding your parental rights. Whether you are negotiating a Parenting Plan or seeking formal Consent Orders, we offer the guidance you need to move forward with confidence.
Major 2025 and 2026 Legal Updates
Australian family law has seen significant changes recently. It is vital that your legal advice reflects the current 2026 standards, as many old “presumptions” no longer apply.
- No More “Equal Shared Responsibility” Presumption: Following the May 2024 reforms, the court no longer starts with the assumption that equal shared parental responsibility is best. Instead, responsibility for major long term decisions is allocated based purely on what promotes the child’s safety and welfare.
- The New “Best Interests” Factors: The court now uses a simplified list of six factors to determine what is best for a child. These include the child’s safety, their developmental and emotional needs, and the capacity of each parent to provide care.
- Safety and Family Violence: Under the June 2025 updates, the court has expanded powers to reject parenting applications that do not meet strict safety criteria or mediation requirements.
Types of Parenting Arrangements
In South Australia, there are three primary ways to formalise care arrangements for your children. We help you choose the path that offers the right balance of flexibility and protection.
1. Parenting Plans
These are informal, written agreements between parents. While they are not legally enforceable, they are highly useful for parents who can cooperate and want a flexible “road map” for care.
2. Consent Orders
If you have reached an agreement but want it to be legally binding, we can draft Consent Orders. Once approved by the Adelaide Family Court, these orders have the same force as a judge’s decision. This provides long term certainty and prevents future disputes.
3. Court-Determined Parenting Orders
If an agreement cannot be reached through mediation, the court will make a final determination. We provide robust representation in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia to ensure your child’s needs and your relationship with them are protected.
Critical Issues in Parenting Matters
Our team provides specialist advice on the “major long term issues” that often lead to conflict:
- Education and Health: Deciding on schools and medical treatments.
- Relocation: Expert guidance if one parent wishes to move with the children, whether within South Australia, interstate, or overseas.
- Special Occasions: Creating clear schedules for school holidays, birthdays, and Christmas to avoid annual stress.
- Grandparents’ Rights: Assisting extended family members in maintaining meaningful relationships with children.
Why Choose Matti Lamb & Associates?
- Adelaide Specialist Knowledge: We are experts in the local Adelaide registry procedures and have extensive experience with local Independent Children’s Lawyers (ICLs).
- Up-to-Date Advocacy: We have mastered the 2024 and 2025 reforms, ensuring your case is built on the most current legal principles.
- Empathetic Support: We understand that your children are your priority. We provide compassionate guidance to minimise the impact of separation on your family.
Protect Your Children’s Future
Arranging care for your children is one of life’s most important decisions. Whether you’re navigating a new separation or updating arrangements in line with the 2025 Family Law reforms, the team at Matti Lamb & Associates offers expert guidance, clear advice, and strong advocacy to ensure your children’s best interests are safeguarded.
- Office Address: Suite 4, Level 1, 202 Belair Road, Hawthorn SA 5062
- Phone: 08 8155 5322
- Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "50/50 time" a legal requirement?
No. There is no rule that children must spend equal time with each parent. The court focuses on what arrangement best suits the child’s specific needs and safety.
Do I have to attend mediation first?
In most cases, yes. You must generally obtain a Section 60I Certificate from an accredited mediator before applying to the court. However, exceptions apply in cases of urgency or family violence.
Can a parenting order be changed?
Yes. If there has been a significant change in circumstances, you can apply to vary an existing order. We can advise if your situation meets the legal threshold for a variation.