Age-Appropriate Parenting Plans or Orders: What You Need to Know for Toddlers to Teens & In-between
Release Date: 09/24/2024
Super Split Myths: Why Equalising Isnât Always Fair in Divorce
The Divorce Course Podcast
đ§ Listen to This Episode If You: đź You're negotiating your super split after divorce in Australia đ§ You've been told âletâs just equalise super â itâs fairâ đľâđŤ Youâre confused about what super is worth vs. cash đ¸ Youâre worried about being left worse off long-term 𧞠Youâve made non-financial contributions (like parenting or homemaking) âď¸ You want to make sure your property settlement is legally fair đ You suspect youâre being pressured into a bad deal Are you about to deal with your superannuation in your divorce or separation? Before you sign...
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Divorce Deals 101: What to Know Before You Make or Accept a Deal With Your Ex
The Divorce Course Podcast
One of the most underestimated parts of separation areâ settlement offers. Whether youâre negotiating parenting arrangements, property division, or both, knowing how and when to make (or respond to) an offer can save you stress, time, and serious money. We break down how settlement offers work, when to consider using Calderbank letters, how Section 117C of the Family Law Act affects legal costs, and the emotional traps that can trip you up during negotiation. We also talk about avoiding lowball traps, the risks of ignoring offers, and what to do if youâre dealing with an avoidant or...
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What the 2025 Family Law Divorce Reforms Might Mean for You
The Divorce Course Podcast
Major Changes Are Coming to Family Law in Australia â Hereâs What Youâll want to Know In this episode, I sit down with my mum Lyn, our favourite straight-talking family lawyerâto unpack the biggest Family Law changes coming into effect on June 10, 2025. We dive into how these legal reforms will impact property settlements, family violence considerations, companion animals (yes, pets!), financial disclosure rules, and more. Whether youâre currently separating, in court, or supporting someone going through it, these new laws could change the game for you. We also break down why...
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Beyond 50/50: Creative & Legal Ways to Settle Property in Divorce in Australia
The Divorce Course Podcast
Are you trying to figure out how to divide the property after your separation or divorce? In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with my mum, but also an experienced family lawyer â and we walk you through the eight most common ways people settle property in Australia. Whether youâre hoping to keep the house, want a clean break, or are totally confused by super splitting, weâre breaking it all down for you. From simple percentage splits to creative asset swaps â and even the risks of doing absolutely nothing â this episode is your go-to guide for understanding your options. If...
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Child Custody In Divorce: The 10 Most Common Questions
The Divorce Course Podcast
In this eye-opening and practical episode,a seasoned family lawyer helps to unpack the 10 most frequently asked questions about child custody in Australia. Whether you're fresh out of a breakup, preparing for court, or trying to figure out what your rights are, this episode is packed with general education and emotional clarity every separated parent needs. From understanding how courts decide who gets custody, to navigating situations involving domestic violence, high-conflict co-parents, and parenting plans this episode helps you gain a better understanding of what's what in child custody...
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What your Lawyer Might Forget to Tell You: Unlocking Funds Before Divorce PROPERTY SETTLEMENT is Final
The Divorce Course Podcast
Feeling trapped in limbo while waiting for your property settlement to go through? Youâre not alone â and there may be a way out. In this episode, Iâm joined again by my mum, Lynette Galvin â a family lawyer with over 35 years of experience â and weâre talking about a powerful but underused legal option called early distribution of funds. This is a game-changer for anyone financially stuck during separation. Whether youâre separated under one roof, struggling to pay rent, or locked out of joint funds, this episode is full of practical ideas to help you understand some options....
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Are You a Victim of FINANCIAL Abuse? Signs You Shouldnât Ignore & What the New Laws Might Mean for You
The Divorce Course Podcast
Are you? Learn about the signs of economic or financial abuse, hear some real-life examples of how economic abuse manifests in relationships and practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your financial future. Find out how it is legally recognized under the Australian Family Law Amendment Act 2024, and why itâs considered a form of coercive control. Also find out about the new laws effective from June 2025 and how they impact property settlements and financial disputes. đ¨ Trigger Warning: This episode discusses economic abuse and coercive control, which may be distressing...
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Divorce Myths That Could Cost You â Debunked!
The Divorce Course Podcast
Think you know what divorce looks like in Australia? Think again. In this episode, we're busting some of the most common myths that trip people up emotionally, financially, and legally during separation and divorce. Whether youâre at the start of your journey or knee-deep in negotiations, these misunderstandings could be holding you back or costing you big. Join Laura and her mum, Lynette Galvin â a family lawyer with 35+ years of experience â as they unpack 13 myths they hear all the time, including ones that cause fear, confusion, and prevent people from getting what theyâre entitled...
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Is Your Ex Hiding Assets? How to Uncover the Truth in Divorce Disclosure
The Divorce Course Podcast
đ° Is your ex hiding assets? Are they draining joint accounts, concealing super, or transferring money to family and friends? You're not alone, and there are legal ways to uncover what's yours. Learn about the most common ways people try to hide assets in divorce, including trust funds, cash jobs, disappearing assets, and hidden overseas accounts. Find out how the Australian Family Court courts handle these cases, what legal tools you can use to track down missing assets, and what to consider doing before mediation or family court. If youâre frustrated by a lack of financial disclosure or...
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Is It Emotional Abuse? How to Identify & Protect Yourself in Divorce
The Divorce Course Podcast
Explore the tactics abusive partners use to maintain control, how emotional abuse can impact divorce and custody proceedings, andâmost importantlyâhow to protect yourself, rebuild your confidence, and move forward with clarity. When emotional abuse in your relationship or divorce, it becomes confusing, isolating, and overwhelming. Many people donât realize that abuse isnât always physicalâdisrespect, manipulation, and control can be just as damaging, especially during separation. In this episode, weâre joined by Krasi Kirova, a clinical psychologist specializing in complex trauma,...
info_outlineListen to This Episode If You:
đ Are navigating a parenting plan or consent or court orders for children at different stages of development.
â Want to understand how the court views plans for babies and the differing age groups all the way to teenagers.
đĄ Are trying to figure out how to create a flexible and adaptable parenting plan as your child grows.
đĄ Are dealing with high-conflict ex-partners and need strategies to protect your child's best interests.
đ Want to learn more about how to handle special situations like breastfeeding, car seats, and school-related issues.
Are you overwhelmed by trying to come up with a fair parenting plan or consent order offer after separation or divorce? Wondering what will happen as they get older, or struggling to figure out what is what when it comes to the different age groupsâtoddlers, tweens, and teens and everything in-between. In this episode, we discuss the unique challenges and considerations for each stage of your childâs development when creating parenting plans and consent orders or asking for court orders. We discuss topics like the primary attachment theory for babies, navigating parenting plans for young children, and managing the evolving needs of primary school-aged kids and figuring out what to do with stubborn teenagers. Whether youâre in the early stages of separation or dealing with an ongoing custody battle, this episode provides valuable insights on how to approach parenting plans that truly serve the best interests of your children.
Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode:
- Primary Attachment for Babies: Why babies up to three years old typically benefit from staying with their primary caregiver, and how this impacts parenting plans and court orders.
- Navigating Consent Orders: How to create orders that take into account the evolving needs of your children as they grow from toddlers to teens.
- Transitioning to Overnights: Strategies for gradually increasing parenting time and handling situations where the non-primary caregiver hasnât been involved.
- Primary School Age Considerations: Managing custody and parenting plans as children start school, including logistical challenges like packing bags and attending social events.
- Teenagers and Flexibility: How to adapt parenting plans for teens who want more independence, and what happens when they refuse to follow the existing custody arrangements.
- High-Conflict Co-Parenting: Dealing with manipulative and controlling ex-partners, and tips for creating clear, enforceable orders to protect your childâs well-being.
- Navigating Changing Court Views: Understanding the recent changes in the Family Law Act and how it affects shared parental responsibility and 50/50 time.
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Free Resources:
| https://www.judcom.nsw.gov.au/publications/benchbks/children/cpm_allerton_attachment.html |
https://www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/divorcewebinarregistration (webinar)
https://www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/opt-in (before you go checklist)
https://www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/opt-in-4ab0c1ab-f43e-4db3-b49b-43c865aa8b1d (mediation checklist)
https://www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/disclosurechecklist (disclosure checklist)
Podcast Episode Timeline
00:00 Introduction to Parenting Plans
01:08 Understanding Parenting Plans for Babies
03:53 Challenges with Parenting Plans for Babies
13:56 Parenting Plans for Primary School Kids
17:56 Common Issues with Primary School Kids
21:56 Navigating Parenting Plans for Teens
22:55 Planning for Your Child's Future
23:41 Teenagers and Court Orders
24:13 Navigating Parental Breaches
25:44 Resources for Mediation and Disclosure
26:27 Mental Health and Teen Independence
27:32 Pressure on Children in Custody Cases
30:06 Handling Avoidant Parents
33:03 Dealing with High-Conflict Exes
33:51 The Importance of Detailed Orders
35:23 Co-Parenting with Manipulative Exes
38:13 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Emergency Contacts:
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WOMEN'S SHELTER SERVICE
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LEGAL AID
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Lifeline: 13 11 14
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Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978
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Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800
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Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: 1800 019 123
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Relationships Australia
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Police: 000
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DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week)
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DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636
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National DV line: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT)
Thank you for tuning in to this episode on navigating parenting plans through various stages of your childâs life. We hope you find the advice helpful in creating a plan that truly meets the needs of your children, regardless of their age. If you found this episode valuable, please rate, review, and subscribe. Your support helps others find the guidance they need. Stay strong and take care.
Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is different, and it is important to seek independent legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.