Video chapters
Quick answer
If a parent has moved and the relocation substantially affects existing care arrangements, first check immediate safety and any current parenting orders. Preserve the facts and obtain urgent advice about communication, dispute resolution, a location or recovery order, or other parenting orders; the appropriate response depends on the child’s circumstances and urgency.
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: Call 000 if anyone is in immediate danger and record any child-safety concern.
- Read the orders: Identify what current orders or written arrangements say about residence, time and communication.
- Preserve the facts: Record when the move occurred, known location, communications, schooling and the effect on arrangements.
- Get urgent advice: Ask promptly about negotiation, urgent parenting orders and whether a location or recovery order is appropriate.
Transcript
taken children away and relocated to another area where it's difficult for you to be able to spend time with the kids as you were previously or as it is under current court orders, then you can get an order to make her return to where she was previously living with the children. It is a complex area of the law. There's nothing to stop the mother moving away. She can live wherever she likes as long as you can still spend time with your children as was ordered under previous court orders or as you were previously. But again, it's something you really need to come and talk to a lawyer about, a suitably qualified lawyer to get proper advice on what your options are to make sure you continue your relationship with your children.
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.