The Family Court of Australia, through its specialist judges and staff, assists Australians to resolve their most complex legal family disputes.
The Family Court is a superior court of record established by Parliament in 1975 under Chapter 3 of the Constitution and deals with more complex matters. These may include:
Parenting cases including those that involve a child welfare agency and/or allegations of sexual abuse or serious physical abuse of a child (Magellan cases), family violence and/or mental health issues with other complexities, multiple parties, complex cases where orders sought having the effect of preventing a parent from communicating with or spending time with a child, multiple expert witnesses, complex questions of law and/or special jurisdictional issues, international child abduction under the Hague Convention, special medical procedures and international relocation.
Financial cases that involve multiple parties, valuation of complex interests in trusts or corporate structures, including minority interests, multiple expert witnesses, complex questions of law and/or jurisdictional issues (including accrued jurisdiction) or complex issues concerning superannuation (such as complex valuations of defined benefit superannuation schemes).
It commenced operations on 5 January 1976 and consists of a Chief Justice, a Deputy Chief Justice and other judges.
The Court maintains registries in all Australian states and territories except Western Australia.
The Court’s goal is to deliver excellence in service for children, families and parties through effective judicial and non-judicial processes and high-quality and timely judgments while respecting the needs of separating families.
To access further information on the Family Court of Australia, please go the Family Court of Australia Website www.familycourt.gov.au, where you can also participate in a live chat regarding any questions you may have.
You are also able to call the Family Law Australia Enquiry Line on 1300 352 000