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Child Relocation Application — Parenting Orders (Interstate or International)

An application filed in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia by a parent seeking court orders to allow them to relocate with a child to another state or overseas where the other parent does not consent.

Issuing authority

Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA)

Official source

fcfcoa.gov.au

Cost

$435–$860 (filing fee varies by application type; fee waiver available)

How to apply

  1. Attempt to reach agreement with the other parent through negotiation or Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) mediation; FDR is generally required before filing (obtain a section 60I certificate).
  2. If no agreement is reached, download the Initiating Application (Family Law) form from https://www.fcfcoa.gov.au/fl/forms/initiating-app.
  3. Complete the Initiating Application specifying that you seek parenting orders permitting relocation; if proceedings are already on foot, file an Application in a Proceeding instead.
  4. Prepare a supporting affidavit setting out your reasons for relocation and how the move is in the child's best interests.
  5. File the Initiating Application (and interim application if urgent) at a FCFCOA registry. Pay the filing fee: $435 for a parenting-only final application ($585 if also seeking interim orders); $710/$860 for combined parenting and financial matters (fees current from 1 July 2025; fee waiver available for concession card holders).
  6. Serve the sealed application and accompanying documents on the other party (respondent) within the timeframe required by the court.
  7. Attend the first court event (typically a Directions Hearing); the court may order a Family Report or other expert evidence to assist in determining the child's best interests.
  8. Attend any further case management events, mediation, or trial as directed by the court.

Related topics

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