Role of the Family Court
The Family Law Courts are made up of the:
- Family Court of Australia—the superior court which deals with appeals and more complex matters
- Federal Circuit Court of Australia (previously called the Federal Magistrates Court of Australia)—operates more informally and encourages people to take part in dispute resolution.
The courts work together under the Australian Government's federal court system.
Read about the way the courts share family law matters.
Issues dealt with by the courts
This page provides links to information about some of the areas dealt with by the courts.
The care of children
Matters affecting children include:
- making future arrangements for children when parents separate
- how separation affects children
- the costs of maintaining children.
Separation and divorce
Separation and divorce matters that the courts deal with include:
- how to get a divorce
- information on proof of divorce
- the rights of couples in de facto and registered relationships.
Money and property
The courts consider how property and assets should be divided when a relationship ends.
They also deal with:
- child support
- spousal maintenance (financial support of a husband, wife or de facto partner)
- financial orders.
Prenuptial agreements
Read about prenuptial (financial) agreements, including:
- what they are
- how to create, change or cancel an agreement
- where to get legal advice.
Family violence
Family violence and child abuse are a priority for the family courts.
Find out about:
- the courts’ responsibilities
- how to get a domestic violence order
- the courts’ family violence strategy.
These are also important matters for the Queensland courts.
Find more information on:
Court orders
Read about court orders, including financial, parenting and consent orders.
Dispute resolution
Contact the Family Relationships Advice Line on 1800 050 321 for more information on dispute resolution services.
Help for communities and individuals
The Family Law Courts can provide specific information and support for:
- Indigenous Australians
- people in regional and rural areas
- culturally and linguistically diverse people
- people with disability.
You can also access interpreter services in the Family Court.
Contact the Family Law Courts on 1300 352 000 for more information on family law matters.