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As the holiday season approaches, separated families are encouraged to start planning parenting arrangements for Christmas and the school holidays as early as possible. Early preparation can help ensure a smoother, more enjoyable festive period for everyone-especially the children.
2025 Court Application Cutoff
you need formal parenting arrangements in place for the Christmas
holidays and agreement cannot be reached, it's important to act
quickly.
The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) has set
the cutoff date for filing applications regarding parenting
arrangements for the Christmas period as Friday, 14 November
2025. This deadline, set by Rule 5.03 of the Family Law
Rules, is always the second Friday in November.
Filing by this date gives the Court approximately six weeks to hear matters before Christmas Day. While the Court will do its best to list matters for a first hearing, there is no guarantee your application will be finalized before the holidays. If your situation is urgent-such as concerns for a child's safety or a significant event like an overseas trip-be prepared to explain this urgency to the Court.
Encouraging Agreement and Child-Focused
Planning
Whenever possible, parents are encouraged to resolve arrangements
through direct discussion, negotiation with the help of lawyers, or
mediation. In some cases, a report from a family consultant, social
worker, or psychologist can help clarify what arrangements are in
the child's best interests.
When making plans, consider:
- The safety and well-being of the child and caregivers
- The child's wishes and views
- The child's developmental, emotional, psychological, and cultural needs
- Each parent's ability to meet those needs
- The importance of the child's relationship with both parents and extended family
- Any other factors unique to your family's circumstances
A child-focused approach is essential. Think about what matters most to your child during Christmas and the school holidays. Can family traditions be maintained? Should Christmas Day be shared or alternated each year? Who is available to care for the children during the long school break? Extended family, such as grandparents, may be able to help.
If agreement can't be reached, seek advice from an experienced family law practitioner.
New for 2025: Kids' Corner
This year, the Family Court has launched Kids' Corner on its website-a dedicated resource to help children and families navigate the court process. Kids' Corner features:
- Two animated videos explaining what happens when a family goes to court and what a family expert is
- Resources for parents on discussing family changes with children
- Links to support services such as Headspace and Kids Helpline
- Stories and resources about children's feelings and experiences
Kids' Corner also highlights the Children's Charter, which puts children at the centre of all decision-making, prioritises their best interests, and focuses on their safety and well-being.
Practical Tips
- Start discussions and planning early-ideally several months before Christmas
- Consider mediation or Family Dispute Resolution if needed
- Document any agreements in writing, such as a Parenting Plan
- Always prioritise your child's best interests
For further support or legal advice, contact the family law team at Mellor Olsson.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
