15/08/2025
👩👦👦 You’ve separated, so what’s the plan?
💔 Separation is never easy, not only does it mark the end of the romantic relationship between a couple but also marks a change in the parenting relationship between the parents.
There are a LOT of things to consider.
For separating parents, one of the most important (if not the most important) thing to do is to ensure that your children are well cared for.
That’s where parenting plans come into play.
1️⃣ What is a parenting plan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents that sets out practical arrangements for their children after separation.
Having a parenting plan helps reduce uncertainty, avoid misunderstandings and assists the parents to focus on the children as the “plan” is already agreed on.
2️⃣ What does it cover?
Parenting Plans are personalised plans that are fully tailored to your requirements. A parenting plan will usually cover the following:
Living arrangements, time spent with each parent, schedules, decision making, schooling, education, health, special occasions, communication between the parents and the children, change-overs, religion, cultural arrangements and much more.
3️⃣ What is the difference between a consent order and parenting plan?
The content is generally the same. The key differences are that:
✅ A parenting plan can be amended by agreement between the parents at any time but the contents are not court enforceable; while
✅Consent orders can only be changed through the court but are court enforceable.
There is no right or wrong answer as to which type of agreement to reach, it depends on the family. Your mediator or lawyers will be able to talk you through your best options.
4️⃣ How do I get one?
Parenting Plans are usually created following from a mediation. The goal of a parenting mediation is to discuss a range or all parenting issues and a mediator will then write the parenting plan following the agreements being reached.
You can create your own parenting plan if you are in agreement or create one using the assistance of a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (like me) or with the assistance of lawyers.
You can download my parenting prompt sheet at www.agreewithme.com.au to help you on your journey! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need some help with your parenting plan!
