Video chapters
Quick answer
Without parenting orders there is no court timetable to enforce, but that does not leave you without options. Put a safe child-focused proposal in writing, keep the evidence, try family dispute resolution unless an exemption applies, and seek parenting or urgent recovery orders where necessary.
What to do
- Write — Make a calm, child-focused proposal and keep every response
- Resolve — Use family dispute resolution unless an exemption applies
- Apply — Ask for parenting orders through the family court
- Escalate — Use an urgent application or recovery order when justified
Transcript
Your ex has stopped you seeing your child, and there are no court orders. The first instinct may be to call police or demand the child back. But without an enforceable parenting order, the practical path usually begins with evidence, a safe written proposal and the family law process.
No orders usually means there is no court-made timetable for police to enforce. It does not mean one parent owns the decision. Family law focuses on the child's best interests and safety. Any family violence or protection order can change what contact is lawful, so read every existing order first.
Send a short child-focused proposal with practical dates, and keep the reply. Arrange family dispute resolution and obtain the required certificate, unless violence, abuse, urgency or another exemption applies. If agreement fails, seek parenting orders. If the child is missing, at immediate risk, or urgently withheld, ask a lawyer about an urgent application, recovery order or location order.
Keep messages factual and avoid threats, repeated confrontations or taking the child back by force. Record missed visits, proposals, welfare concerns and attempts to resolve the problem. Police can respond to danger and enforce valid orders, but they do not decide a new parenting schedule at the station.
The right next step depends on safety, where the child is and whether any other order exists. Go To Court can give free general information at any hour and arrange a consultation with a family lawyer, subject to availability. The contact details are on your screen.
Sources and further help
Sources checked 3 September 2026.
- Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia — Applying for parenting orders
- Attorney-General's Department — Section 60I certificates and family dispute resolution
- Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia — Recovery orders
- Attorney-General's Department — Parenting arrangements after separation
- Go To Court Lawyers — Urgent legal help
Important
This video provides general information about family law in Australia. It is not legal advice and does not take account of your circumstances. Parenting decisions turn on the child's best interests and safety; property outcomes turn on the evidence and circumstances. Laws and court processes can change. Get advice from a qualified lawyer about your situation.