Understand what kind of order you are dealing with
Whether you need temporary arrangements, enforceable parenting decisions or protection of property, start with the type of order that addresses your situation. Our guides explain the options and where they fit within the Australian family-law process.
Orders and interim orders
Begin with the overview, then explore parenting orders or the practical steps for applying for interim orders.
Orders in Australian Family Law
What interim orders are, the issues they can deal with, how the process works and why temporary orders may be needed before a final outcome.
How to Apply for an Interim Order
A practical step-by-step guide covering applications, affidavits, service, financial documents and the interim hearing.
Parenting Orders in Australia
What parenting orders can cover, when parents may need them and how Court orders differ from informal parenting arrangements.
Types of Parenting Orders
Living arrangements, time, communication, decision-making and other conditions that can be included in parenting orders.
Parenting Plans
Understand the difference between a voluntary parenting plan and a legally enforceable Court order.
Family Law Process
See where interim orders fit into the broader process—from separation and dispute resolution through to Court hearings and final orders.
Interim, final and consent orders
These labels describe different stages or ways orders can be made.
Interim orders
Temporary orders can provide a workable arrangement while the Court gathers evidence, manages risk or waits for later steps in the case. They are legally binding while they remain in force. See how to apply for an interim order and what evidence may be needed.
Final orders
Final orders are made at the end of a case or by final agreement. They are intended to resolve the issues before the Court, although the law permits later applications in particular circumstances. The family-law process guide explains the stages leading to a final hearing.
Consent orders
Parties who reach agreement can ask the Court to formalise that agreement as orders. A parenting plan is different from enforceable consent orders, and the Court must still be satisfied that the legal requirements for making orders are met.
Parenting orders
Parenting orders can be interim or final. The different types of parenting orders can address where a child lives, time with parents or other significant people, communication and responsibility for particular decisions.
Why interim orders may be sought
The need for interim orders depends on the issues in dispute and whether an enforceable arrangement is needed before the matter can be finally resolved.
Parenting stability
Temporary arrangements may be needed about where children live, time, communication, changeovers or other parenting issues after separation.
Safety
Where there are allegations of family violence, abuse or other risk, the Court can make temporary arrangements while the matter is assessed. In suitable cases, urgent applications may be needed.
Property protection
Interim injunctions may be sought to preserve property or prevent particular conduct while property settlement proceedings continue.
Financial support
Some applications involve interim spousal maintenance and financial support orders while the wider financial case remains unresolved.
See where Court orders fit into the family-law process
Many matters are resolved without a final contested hearing. Family Dispute Resolution and mediation can help parties negotiate; where an application is necessary, the Family Law Process guide explains interim hearings, evidence and final orders.