What is the difference between a Parenting Plan and Parenting Orders?

Navigating parenting arrangements during a separation can be difficult, particularly if you and your former partner or spouse are unable to come to an agreement regarding the care of the children. In this article, we will discuss what you and your former partner or spouse can do if you do come to an agreement, the differences between a parenting plan and parenting orders and in what circumstances they may be required.

What is a parenting plan?

A Parenting Plan is a written agreement that covers arrangements for children, following a separation.

While it is a written agreement, a parenting plan is an informal way of documenting the parenting arrangements that are agreed to by both parents for any child/ren of the relationship after separation. The only way to formalise the parenting arrangements, is by making an Application to the Court and obtaining Parenting Orders.