Parenting Coordination

Parenting coordination is a structured, post-orders process designed to support implementation of parenting arrangements and reduce ongoing conflict between parents following separation. This service is often sought by parents experiencing ongoing conflict following separation, particularly where parenting orders or agreements are in place but difficult to maintain.

The work is structured and practical in focus, supporting alignment with court orders and the needs of children, while reducing the likelihood of further litigation.

Parenting coordination is provided in Melbourne and across Victoria, with in-person and hybrid arrangements available.

Referrals are accepted from legal practitioners and self-referrals from parents (subject to suitability).

Parenting coordination undertaken as a distinct professional role and is not provided concurrently with assessment or reporting functions.

When Parenting Coordination may be appropriate

Parenting coordination may be suitable where:

  • final parenting orders or binding agreements are in place
  • parents experience ongoing conflict in implementing arrangements
  • communication between parents is strained, inconsistent, or escalated
  • disagreements arise in day-to-day parenting matters, including logistics, education, health, and communication
  • parenting arrangements are in place but are difficult to maintain consistently
  • the Court or legal representatives identify parenting coordination as an appropriate post-orders support

Parenting coordination provides a structured process to manage these issues without returning to court.

The service is most effective where parents are able to engage in a structured and accountable process, even where conflict remains high.

When Parenting Coordination is not appropriate

PParenting coordination is not suitable where:

  • therapeutic or counselling services are sought
  • the process is used to re-litigate parenting arrangements
  • there is active, unmanaged family violence that cannot be safely contained within a coordination framework
  • a party is unwilling to engage with structure, boundaries, or shared accountability

Evertrack Family Practice may decline or discontinue services where the process is no longer appropriate, effective, or safe. safe.

Scope of the role

Parenting coordination is tailored to the needs of each family and the authority available under court orders or agreement.

The role may include:

  • assisting with interpretation and implementation of parenting orders or agreements
  • supporting structured, child-focused communication
  • providing guidance in routine parenting disputes
  • supporting consistency and predictability in arrangements
  • providing written guidance where appropriate
  • exercising limited decision-making authority where expressly authorised

All parenting coordination is time-limited, subject to review, and governed by a written service agreement.


When Parenting Coordination Is Not Appropriate

To maintain clarity and integrity, Parenting Coordination does not involve:

  • counselling or therapy
  • mediation aimed at changing parenting arrangements
  • advocacy for either parent
  • case management or supervision
  • providing opinions or reports for court proceedings

The role is focused on implementation and management, not assessment or treatment.


Role Boundaries

Parenting coordination is a distinct professional function focused on implementation and conflict management.

It does not involve:

  • counselling or therapeutic intervention
  • mediation aimed at changing parenting arrangements
  • advocacy for either party
  • preparation of reports or opinions for court

Fees and structure

Parenting coordination is provided on a structured, retainer-based model.

Fees are determined by the complexity of the matter, scope of authority, and anticipated level of involvement.

Fees are typically shared between parents unless otherwise agreed or ordered.

Detailed fee information is provided following intake and suitability screening.

Referrals and intake

Referrals may be made by legal practitioners, courts, allied professionals, or directly by parents (subject to suitability).

All matters are subject to intake screening, conflict assessment, and confirmation of role suitability.

Enquiries

For enquiries regarding parenting coordination, please contact Evertrack Family Practice using the enquiry form.

All enquiries are reviewed to ensure the service is appropriate, safe, and aligned with the best interests of the child.