When parents separate, one of the most important steps is setting up a clear and practical parenting agreement. This document helps reduce misunderstandings, ensures both parents are on the same page and puts the child’s best interests first. So, what should you include in a parenting agreement?

A well-drafted parenting agreement should cover all aspects of the child’s daily life, care and upbringing, from living arrangements to holidays and education. Whether you’re drafting it privately or turning it into consent orders, it’s essential that the agreement is detailed, fair and future-focused.

Read on for a breakdown of what to include in a parenting agreement in Australia and how to get it right from the start.

Quick Overview: What to Include in a Parenting Agreement

A parenting agreement should include:

• living arrangements
• visitation schedules
• decision-making responsibilities
• communication expectations
• holiday plans
• financial support details
• dispute resolution methods

It serves as a blueprint for co-parenting after separation, helping parents avoid conflict and ensure consistency for their children.

Key Things to Include in a Parenting Agreement

Living Arrangements and Time Spent with Each Parent

One of the most important elements of any parenting agreement is how time will be shared between parents.

• Where the child will primarily live
• Regular contact schedules (weekdays, weekends)
• Overnight stays and drop-off/pick-up details
• Provisions for young children or infants (feeding/sleep schedules)

The agreement should reflect the child’s needs and allow for flexibility where possible.

Schooling and Education Decisions

Clearly outline how decisions about education will be made:

• Choice of school and who pays school fees
• Participation in extracurricular activities
• Support for homework or tutoring
• Who attends parent-teacher interviews or school events

Educational stability is vital to a child’s development, and your agreement should support this.

Medical Care and Health Decisions

To prevent confusion during medical situations, include:

• Who makes decisions about healthcare (GPs, specialists, vaccinations)
• Handling of health insurance or medical bills
• How information is shared between parents
• Emergency contacts and procedures

Both parents should have access to important health information unless court restrictions apply.

Communication with the Child

Maintaining strong communication between a child and both parents is essential. Your agreement should include:

• How the child will contact the parent they’re not living with (phone, video call)
• Frequency and timing of contact
• Guidelines around social media or mobile phone use

Consistency in communication builds a healthy co-parenting relationship and supports the child emotionally.

Holidays, Birthdays and Special Occasions

A common source of dispute is having to attend special occasions and events. So address it clearly in the agreement:

• School holiday arrangements (split time, travel, overseas plans)
• Alternate parenting for public holidays, Christmas, birthdays and religious events
• Procedures for special requests (e.g., extended family visits, family reunions)

Being specific about these events avoids future disagreements.

Financial Responsibilities

While child support is often handled through Services Australia, a parenting agreement can include:

• Day-to-day expenses not covered by child support (e.g., school supplies, uniforms, health extras)
• Contributions to big-ticket items (e.g., braces, laptops)
• Payment method and frequency

Transparency in financial expectations keeps things fair and reduces resentment.

Travel and Relocation Terms

Travel and relocation can become major points of contention. Include:

• Rules around interstate or international travel with the child
• Notice periods and required consent
• Travel insurance, passport arrangements
• What happens if one parent plans to relocate

This section ensures that neither parent makes sudden decisions that disrupt the child’s stability.

Religion, Culture and Language

If your child is being raised in a particular religious or cultural tradition, outline agreements on:

• Participation in religious services or cultural events
• Language education or bilingual communication
• Respect for traditions and shared values

These inclusions reflect the child’s heritage and support a balanced upbringing.

Dispute Resolution and Agreement Updates

No matter how comprehensive, disagreements may still occur. Include a plan for resolving them:

• Steps for handling disputes (e.g., direct discussion, mediation, family dispute resolution)
• Review dates or conditions for revisiting the agreement
• Who will initiate updates when circumstances change (e.g., new school, job relocation)

Including this helps avoid returning to court unnecessarily.

Is a Parenting Agreement Legally Binding?

Parenting agreements are not automatically enforceable by law. To make them legally binding:

• Apply to the Family Court for Consent Orders or
• Enter into a formal Parenting Plan (less formal but still influential in court)

Johnsons Law Group can help you decide which path is best and handle the legal process from start to finish.

FAQs: What to Include in a Parenting Agreement in Australia

Do both parents have to agree on everything?

Ideally yes, but compromise is often necessary. Mediation can help resolve differences.

Can we make changes later?

Yes, parenting agreements should be updated as your child’s needs evolve.

What if the other parent doesn’t follow the agreement?

If not legally binding, mediation is the next step. For formal orders, you may return to court for enforcement.

Should we involve lawyers in drafting the agreement?

Absolutely. Legal advice ensures your agreement is clear, fair and aligned with family law principles.

Can this cover parenting arrangements during separation but before divorce?

Yes. Parenting agreements can be created anytime after separation, even before divorce proceedings.

Why Choose Johnsons Law Group to Draft Your Parenting Agreement?

At Johnsons Law Group, we know how important it is to protect your child’s wellbeing while respecting both parents’ roles. Our experienced family lawyers can:

• Help you draft a detailed, practical parenting agreement
• Offer mediation and negotiation support
• Convert your agreement into consent orders
• Represent you in court if disputes arise

With compassion, professionalism and experience, we guide you toward peaceful co-parenting solutions.

Protect Your Child’s Future. Contact Johnsons Law Group Today

If you’re ready to formalise parenting arrangements, don’t leave it to guesswork. A clear, well-drafted agreement can prevent conflict and safeguard your child’s wellbeing.

Call Johnsons Law Group today on 02 9600 727 or visit our Contact Us page to schedule a confidential consultation. We’re here to help you create a secure foundation for your family’s future.