Video chapters
Quick answer
A parenting order continues to operate until it is changed, and adults affected by it must take reasonable steps to comply. A child’s refusal can raise difficult safety, maturity and practical issues; record what occurred, avoid force or coaching, address urgent risk and obtain advice about compliance or changing the order.
About this historical recording
This recording is retained because it explains the issue in plain language and forms part of the Go To Court video archive. The current answer, practical steps and official sources on this page take priority wherever legislation, terminology, institutions, deadlines, penalties or service arrangements have changed.
What to do now
- Check immediate safety: Respond to any genuine risk and call 000 if someone is in immediate danger.
- Read the order: Identify the exact obligation and any conditions, handover arrangements or dispute-resolution steps.
- Take reasonable steps: Encourage compliance without exposing the child to conflict, force or inappropriate questioning.
- Get advice promptly: Keep objective records and ask whether enforcement, variation, counselling or another child-focused response is appropriate.
Transcript
You have a court order in place and the child doesn't want to go and spend time with the other parent. The family law act says that you are to facilitate that relationship and encourage the child to go and spend time with the parent. If the child still refuses to, you may be in contravention of court orders. So it's best to come and talk to us and talk about what your rights and your obligations are and what the consequences are for you if you don't facilitate your child spending time with the other parent.
Current sources
Sources checked 4 September 2026.
Important
This page provides general information only; it is not legal advice and does not take account of your circumstances. The embedded video is a historical recording. Laws, court arrangements, procedures, fees, deadlines and official guidance can change. Check the current sources above and obtain advice from a qualified lawyer about your situation.