Maximising children's interests after parental separation: the australian experience

Abstract

This briefing gives an overview of policy developments in Australia aimed at maximising the interests of children when their parents separate. It touches on issues common to a number of countries, in particular attempts to promote a more conciliatory approach through the provision of early intervention and education programs, alternate dispute resolution services and specific services for men. It discusses the re-focusing of counselling and mediation programs as well as describing some initiatives targeted at the resolution of more difficult situations - continuing disputes over children and situations where safety for one or more family members is endangered.