1: Title
This Act is the Care of Children Amendment Act (No 2) 2013.
2: Commencement
1: The following provisions come into force on the day after the date on which this Act receives the Royal assent:
a: section 10 new sections 46H, 46I, and 46K
b: section 39(1) and (5)
2: The rest of this Act comes into force on a date appointed by the Governor-General by Order in Council.
3: Any provision that has not earlier been brought into force comes into force on 1 October 2014. Section 2(2): brought into force 31 March 2014 Care of Children Amendment Act (No 2) 2013 Commencement Order 2014
3: Principal Act
This Act Care of Children Act 2004 principal Act 2013-09-25 Care of Children Act 2004 section 10, to the extent only that it inserts new sections 46H, 46I, and 46K and section 39(1) and (5) come into force on 25/9/13. OIC LI 2014/88 2014-03-31 Care of Children Act 2004 ss 3–9, s 10 (to the extend that it inserts new ss 46C-46G, s 46J, & ss 46L-46R), ss 11–38, s 39(2)-(4), ss 40–43 come into force on 31 March 2014. See LI 2014/88/2 2014-10-01 Care of Children Act 2004 The rest of this Act comes into force on a date appointed by the Governor-General by Order in Council. Any provision that has not earlier been brought into force comes into force on 1 October 2014. Closed now — all provisions in force
4: Sections 4 and 5 replaced
Replace sections 4 5
4: Child's welfare and best interests to be paramount
1: The welfare and best interests of a child in his or her particular circumstances must be the first and paramount consideration—
a: in the administration and application of this Act, for example, in proceedings under this Act; and
b: in any other proceedings involving the guardianship of, or the role of providing day-to-day care for, or contact with, a child.
2: Any person considering the welfare and best interests of a child in his or her particular circumstances—
a: must take into account—
i: the principle that decisions affecting the child should be made and implemented within a time frame that is appropriate to the child's sense of time; and
ii: the principles in section 5
b: may take into account the conduct of the person who is seeking to have a role in the upbringing of the child to the extent that that conduct is relevant to the child's welfare and best interests.
3: It must not be presumed that the welfare and best interests of a child (of any age) require the child to be placed in the day-to-day care of a particular person because of that person's gender.
4: This section does not—
a: limit section 6 or 83, or subpart 4 of Part 2; or
b: prevent any person from taking into account other matters relevant to the child's welfare and best interests.
5: Principles relating to child's welfare and best interests
The principles relating to a child's welfare and best interests are that—
a: a child's safety must be protected and, in particular, a child must be protected from all forms of violence (as defined in section 3(2) to (5) of the Domestic Violence Act 1995) from all persons, including members of the child's family, family group, whānau, hapū, and iwi:
b: a child's care, development, and upbringing should be primarily the responsibility of his or her parents and guardians:
c: a child's care, development, and upbringing should be facilitated by ongoing consultation and co-operation between his or her parents, guardians, and any other person having a role in his or her care under a parenting or guardianship order:
d: a child should have continuity in his or her care, development, and upbringing:
e: a child should continue to have a relationship with both of his or her parents, and that a child's relationship with his or her family group, whānau, hapū, or iwi should be preserved and strengthened:
f: a child's identity (including, without limitation, his or her culture, language, and religious denomination and practice) should be preserved and strengthened.
5A: Domestic violence to be taken into account
1: This section applies if—
a: an application is made to the court for—
i: a guardianship order under section 19 or 27; or
ii: a direction under section 46R
iii: a parenting order under section 48; or
iv: a variation of a parenting order under section 56; and
b: a final protection order made under section 14 of the Domestic Violence Act 1995 is, or at any time has been, in force against 1 or more parties to the application.
2: In taking into account the principle in section 5(a)
a: whether the protection order is still in force:
b: the circumstances in which the protection order was made:
c: any written reasons given by the Judge who made the protection order for his or her decision.
5: Section 7 replaced (Lawyer to act for child)
Replace section 7
7: Appointment of lawyer to represent child in proceedings
A court may appoint, or direct the Registrar of the court to appoint, a lawyer to represent a child who is the subject of, or who is a party to, proceedings (other than criminal proceedings) under this Act if the court—
a: has concerns for the safety or well-being of the child; and
b: considers an appointment necessary.
7A: Lawyers acting for parties
1: A lawyer may act for a party to a proceeding under this Act that is to be heard and determined in a Family Court only as provided in subsections (2) to (6)
2: A lawyer may act for a party to a proceeding commenced by an application made under subpart 4 of Part 2.
3: A lawyer may act for a party to a proceeding if that party is the Crown.
4: A lawyer may act for a party to a proceeding that is—
a: commenced by an application made without notice until such time (if at all) as a Family Court Judge directs that the application proceed on notice:
b: commenced by an application made on notice from such time (if at all) as a Family Court Judge directs that—
i: the application proceed as if it were an application made without notice; or
ii: the application be heard by the court in conjunction with an application that is filed under any other Act; or
iii: the application proceed to a hearing:
c: commenced by an application made without notice that a Family Court Judge has directed proceed on notice, from such time (if at all) as the Judge makes a direction of a kind specified in paragraph (b)(ii) or (iii)
5: A lawyer may act for a child who is a party to a proceeding if the lawyer has been appointed by the court under section 7
6: A lawyer may act for a party at a settlement conference convened under section 46Q
7: A direction referred to in subsection (6)
a: at least 1 of the parties needs legal representation at the settlement conference; and
b: the parties having legal representation at the settlement conference will be likely to facilitate settlement of the issues in dispute by agreement between the parties.
8: In this section,— act
a: to sign any document for the party:
b: to file any document for the party:
c: to accept service for the party:
d: to represent the party in court, or otherwise attend with the party before a Judge or Registrar party to a proceeding
9: To avoid doubt, nothing in this section prevents a lawyer from—
a: giving legal advice to a party:
b: preparing any document for a party:
c: conducting negotiations for a party.
7B: Duties of lawyer when giving advice
A lawyer providing legal advice to a person about arrangements for the guardianship or care of a child, or both, must ensure that the person is aware of—
a: the need for the child's welfare and best interests to be the first and paramount consideration when settling arrangements; and
b: the mechanisms for assisting resolution of family disputes; and
c: the steps for commencing a proceeding under this Act and subsequently pursuing the proceeding through the court process to obtain a resolution; and
d: the types of directions and orders that the court may make if a proceeding is commenced.
6: Section 8 amended (Interpretation)
1: In section 8 approved counselling organisation section 46H counselling services section 46G(2) counsellor section 46K parenting information programme .
2: In section 8 prescribed
7: Section 23 amended (Appointment of eligible spouse or partner of parent as additional guardian)
In section 23(5) the prescribed form a form approved by the Secretary
8: Section 40 amended (Agreements between parents and guardians)
Replace section 40(1)
1: A party to an agreement to which subsection (2) applies may seek to have the terms of the agreement embodied in an order of the court that may be enforced, as provided in subsections (3) and (4).
9: Sections 44 to 46 and cross-heading above section 44 repealed
Repeal sections 44 to 46
10: New sections 46C to 46R and cross-headings inserted
After section 46B
46C: Certain children may seek review of parent's or guardian's decision or refusal to give consent
1: A child of or over the age of 16 years who is affected by a decision or by a refusal of consent by a parent or guardian in an important matter may (unless the child is under the guardianship of the court) apply to a Family Court Judge, who may, if he or she thinks it reasonable in all the circumstances to do so, review the decision or refusal and make any order in respect of it that he or she thinks fit.
2: A consent given by a Family Court Judge under this section has the same effect as if it had been given by the parent or guardian.
3: This section does not apply where a parent or guardian refuses to give consent to a child's marriage, civil union, or entry into a de facto relationship. In those cases, sections 18 to 20 of the Marriage Act 1955, sections 19 and 20 of the Civil Union Act 2004, and section 46A of this Act, respectively, apply instead. Family dispute resolution
46D: Meaning of family dispute resolution
In sections 46E and 46F family dispute resolution family dispute resolution form FDR provider Family Dispute Resolution Act 2013
46E: Family dispute resolution mandatory before commencement of proceedings
1: This section applies to an application under section 46R
2: The application must be accompanied by a family dispute resolution form that has been signed by an FDR provider within the preceding 12 months.
3: Subsection (2) subsection (4)
4: A family dispute resolution form is not required to accompany an application that—
a: is in response to an application that another party to the proceedings has made for an order under section 46R
b: is without notice; or
c: is for a consent order; or
d: seeks the enforcement of an existing order; or
e: relates to a child who is the subject of proceedings already begun under Part 2 of the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989; or
f: is accompanied by an affidavit that provides evidence of either of the following matters:
i: that at least 1 of the parties to the family dispute is unable to participate effectively in family dispute resolution:
ii: that at least 1 of the parties to the family dispute, or a child of one of the parties, has been subject to domestic violence by one of the other parties to the dispute.
5: A Registrar may refuse to accept for filing an application that is accompanied by an affidavit of the kind referred to in subsection (4)(f) if the affidavit does not provide sufficient evidence of either of the matters set out in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) of that paragraph.
6: A Registrar who is unsure, under subsection (5) subsection (4)(f)
46F: Family dispute resolution after proceedings commenced
1: This section applies after an application has been made to a Family Court for—
a: a direction under section 46R
b: a parenting order under section 48.
2: At any time before the application is finally determined, a Family Court Judge may direct the parties to attend family dispute resolution.
3: A direction under subsection (2)
a: the Judge considers that there is a reasonable prospect that family dispute resolution will assist the parties in reaching an agreement on the resolution of the matters in dispute; and
b: the parties—
i: have not participated in family dispute resolution in the preceding 12 months; or
ii: have participated in family dispute resolution in the preceding 12 months but consent to the direction being made.
4: A direction under subsection (2) Counselling
46G: Counselling after proceedings commenced
1: This section applies after an application has been made to a Family Court for—
a: a direction under section 46R
b: a parenting order under section 48.
2: A Family Court Judge may direct the Registrar of the court to refer the parties to the application to counselling services for either or both of the following purposes:
a: to improve the relationship between the parties:
b: to encourage compliance with any direction or order made by the court.
3: A direction under subsection (2)
4: A Family Court Judge may make a direction under subsection (2)
a: at any stage of the proceedings, including when making a final order; but
b: once only.
5: On receipt of a direction under subsection (2)
a: arrange for the parties to be referred to a counsellor or an approved counselling organisation; and
b: inform the parties accordingly.
46H: Approval of counselling organisation
1: The Secretary may, by notice in the Gazette
2: In deciding whether to approve an organisation under subsection (1) section 147(2)(aa)
3: An approval under subsection (1)
46I: Suspension or cancellation of approval of counselling organisation
1: The Secretary may, by notice in the Gazette section 147(2)(ab)
2: If under subsection (1)
46J: Duties of approved counselling organisation
An approved counselling organisation to which any parties are referred under section 46G(5)(a)
a: nominate a counsellor to provide counselling services to the parties; and
b: arrange for the counsellor to meet with the parties.
46K: Appointment of counsellors
1: The Secretary or an approved counselling organisation may appoint a person as a counsellor if the Secretary or approved counselling organisation is satisfied that the person is qualified and competent to provide counselling services.
2: In deciding whether a person meets the criteria in subsection (1) section 147(2)(ac) and (ad)
46L: Privilege
1: This section applies to a statement a party makes to a counsellor for the purpose of enabling the counsellor to provide counselling services.
2: No evidence of the statement is admissible in any court or before any person acting judicially.
3: A counsellor commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $500 who discloses to any other person a statement made to the counsellor for the purpose of enabling the counsellor to provide counselling services.
46M: Number of sessions of counselling
The maximum number of sessions of counselling to be carried out under section 46G section 147(2)(ae)
46N: Counselling fees and expenses
Fees in respect of counselling carried out under section 46G
a: be determined in accordance with regulations made under section 147(2)(af)
b: be paid in accordance with that determination out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose. Parenting information programmes
46O: Judge may direct party to undertake parenting information programme
1: At any time after an application has been made to the court for a parenting order under section 48, a Family Court Judge may direct 1 or more parties to the application to attend a parenting information programme.
2: However, the Family Court Judge may not make a direction under subsection (1) Settlement conferences
46P: Purpose of settlement conferences
The purpose of a settlement conference is to enable a Family Court Judge to—
a: ascertain whether any or all of the issues in dispute between the parties can be settled; and
b: settle those issues.
46Q: Settlement conferences
1: A Family Court Judge may, before the hearing of a proceeding, direct the Registrar to convene a settlement conference.
2: However, a settlement conference may be convened under subsection (1)
3: At a settlement conference, a Family Court Judge may, with the consent of the parties, make an order settling some or all of the issues in dispute between the parties.
4: Before a party consents to the making of an order, a Family Court Judge may advise that party to obtain legal advice. Guardianship disputes
46R: Disputes between guardians
1: If 2 or more guardians of a child are unable to agree on a matter concerning the exercise of their guardianship, any of them may apply to the court for its direction.
2: An application under subsection (1) subsection (3)
3: An application under subsection (1)
a: under an order of the High Court, 2 or more persons are guardians of, or have the role of providing day-to-day care for, a child, and that order has not been removed into a Family Court under section 127; or
b: a child is under the guardianship of the High Court.
4: On an application under subsection (1)
11: New sections 47A and 47B inserted
After section 47
47A: Mandatory statement in applications
1: This section applies to an application for a parenting order under section 48.
2: The application must include a statement made by or on behalf of the applicant for the order about whether and how the order can and should provide for any other person or persons to have the role of providing day-to-day care for, or contact with, the child.
47B: Mandatory statement and evidence in applications
1: This section applies to—
a: an application for a parenting order under section 48:
b: an application to vary a parenting order under section 56.
2: The application must include a statement made by or on behalf of the applicant for the order—
a: that the applicant has undertaken a parenting information programme within the preceding 2 years; or
b: that the applicant is not required to undertake a parenting information programme because—
i: the applicant is unable to participate effectively in a parenting information programme; or
ii: the applicant is making the application without notice.
3: Evidence in support of a statement made under subsection (2)(a) or (b)(i)
4: A Registrar may refuse to accept an application if the Registrar considers that the evidence provided does not adequately support the statement.
12: Section 48 amended (Parenting orders)
Replace section 48(4) to (6)
4: A parenting order (whether an interim parenting order or a final parenting order) may be made subject to any terms or conditions the court considers appropriate (for example, a condition requiring a party to enter into a bond).
13: Section 49 replaced (Applications to include statement on others' involvement)
Replace section 49
49: Interim parenting orders
1: At any time before an application for a parenting order is finally determined in a court, a Judge may make an interim parenting order that has effect until—
a: a specified date; or
b: a specified event; or
c: it is replaced by—
i: another interim order; or
ii: a final order.
2: However, a Judge must not make an interim order unless the Judge is satisfied that an interim order serves the welfare and best interests of the child better than a final order.
49A: Interim parenting order where parent does not have day-to-day care for, or contact with, child
1: This section applies if—
a: an interim parenting order is made; and
b: the parents of the child in respect of whom the interim parenting order is made are parties to the order; and
c: under the interim parenting order, one of the parents has neither the role of providing day-to-day care for nor contact with the child.
2: If this section applies, the court must, as soon as practicable, assign a hearing date that is not more than 3 months after the date of the interim parenting order, and at the hearing on that date the court may replace the interim order with—
a: a further interim order; or
b: a final parenting order.
49B: Interim parenting order may become final order on specified date
1: When making an interim parenting order that has effect until a specified date (the specified date section 7
2: If a party to the proceeding or any lawyer appointed under section 7
3: When an interim parenting order becomes a final parenting order under subsection (2)
49C: Final parenting orders
1: At any time during a proceeding, a Judge may make a final parenting order if the parties consent.
2: When an application for a parenting order is finally determined by the court, a Judge must make a final parenting order.
14: Section 51 amended (Court must consider protective conditions in certain cases)
Repeal section 51(3)
15: Section 55 amended (Content and explanation of parenting orders)
In section 55(1)(b) the prescribed form a form approved by the Secretary
16: Sections 57 to 62 and cross-heading above section 58 replaced
Replace sections 57 to 62 section 58
57: Variation of final parenting order by consent memorandum instead of application
1: This section applies if the parties to a final parenting order made under this Act agree to a variation of the order, or to a variation of any term or condition to which the order is subject (the proposed variation
2: A party to the final parenting order may, instead of applying under section 56 for a variation of the order, file a consent memorandum seeking an order in terms of the proposed variation.
3: The consent memorandum must—
a: set out the proposed variation; and
b: state that all persons affected by the final parenting order (other than children) agree to the proposed variation; and
c: be signed by all parties.
4: On the filing of a consent memorandum, the Registrar may make and seal an order varying the final parenting order in terms of the proposed variation set out in the memorandum. Supervised contact
58: Interpretation
In this section and sections 59 and 60 approved provider
a: approved—
i: by the chief executive as a community service under section 403 of the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989; or
ii: by the Secretary; or
iii: by an officer of the court appointed under section 8(2) of the Family Courts Act 1980; and
b: nominated by the court or Registrar for the particular case supervised contact
a: under the supervision of an approved provider; or
b: in the immediate presence of a person approved by the court (for example, a relative, a friend of the family of the child, or any other person whom the court considers suitable).
59: Court may order supervised contact
1: This section applies if the court—
a: is making or varying a parenting order determining the time or times when a person may have contact with a child; and
b: is not satisfied that the child will be safe with that person.
2: The court may make an order for supervised contact between the child and that person, and, if it does so, the court must specify in the order whether the supervised contact is to occur—
a: under the supervision of an approved provider; or
b: in the immediate presence of a person approved by the court (for example, a relative, a friend of the family of the child, or any other person whom the court considers suitable).
60: Costs of formal supervised contact
1: This section applies only to supervised contact that is ordered under section 59
2: The number of sessions of the contact that will be funded out of public money must be determined in accordance with regulations made under section 147(2)(a) or, in the absence of regulations of that kind, by the Registrar or the court.
3: Fees in respect of the contact—
a: must be determined in accordance with regulations made under section 147(2)(b) or, in the absence of regulations of that kind, by the Registrar or the court; and
b: are payable out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.
17: Section 63 repealed (Purpose and overview of sections 64 to 80)
Repeal section 63
18: Section 64 amended (Guiding consideration and principles)
Repeal section 64(2)
19: Sections 65 to 67 repealed
Repeal sections 65 to 67
20: Section 69 amended (Court may require parties to attend for counselling or for hearing of application under section 68)
1: In the heading to section 69 for counselling or
2: Repeal section 69(1)(a)
21: Section 78 replaced (Contravening parenting order)
Replace section 78
78: Contravening parenting or guardianship order
1: A person commits an offence who, without reasonable excuse, intentionally—
a: contravenes—
i: a parenting order; or
ii: a guardianship order made under section 40 or 46R
b: prevents compliance with—
i: a parenting order; or
ii: a guardianship order made under section 40 or 46R
2: A person who commits an offence under subsection (1)
a: a term of imprisonment not exceeding 3 months; or
b: a fine not exceeding $2,500.
3: Nothing in this section limits the power of a court to punish a person for contempt of court.
22: Section 102 amended (Child abducted from New Zealand)
Replace section 102(2)
2: Every application under subsection (1) must be in a form approved by the Secretary.
23: Section 112 amended (Child outside New Zealand)
Replace section 112(2)
2: Every application under subsection (1) must be in a form approved by the Secretary.
24: Section 125 amended (Jurisdiction of courts)
In section 125(2)(a) section 44 section 46R
25: Section 130 replaced (Counsel to assist court)
Replace section 130
130: Appointment of lawyer to assist court
In any proceedings under this Act (other than criminal proceedings), a court may—
a: appoint a lawyer to assist the court; or
b: direct the Registrar of the court to appoint a lawyer to assist the court.
26: Section 131 replaced (Costs of court-appointed counsel)
Replace section 131
131: Fees and expenses of lawyer appointed under section 7 or 130
1: The fees and expenses of a lawyer appointed under section 7 or 130 must—
a: be determined in accordance with regulations made under section 16D of the Family Courts Act 1980 or, if no such regulations are made, by the Registrar of the court; and
b: be paid in accordance with that determination out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.
2: An invoice rendered by a lawyer appointed under section 7 or 130 for fees and expenses must be given to the Registrar of the court in which the proceedings were heard, and the Registrar may decide to adjust the amount of the invoice.
3: A lawyer who is dissatisfied with the decision of the Registrar as to the amount of the invoice may, within 14 days after the date of the decision, apply to a Family Court Judge to review the decision, and the Judge may on the application make any order varying or confirming the decision that the Judge considers fair and reasonable.
4: Where in any proceedings a lawyer has been appointed under section 7 or 130 and the fees and expenses relating to that appointment have been paid under subsection (1), the court must make an order under section 135A, unless the court declines to do so in accordance with that section.
5: However, no order under section 135A may be made—
a: in any proceedings commenced by an application under section 105 or a request under section 111; or
b: against—
i: the Crown, whether acting through the department for the time being responsible for the administration of the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989 or otherwise; or
ii: a person in whose custody the child concerned has been placed pursuant to an order made under the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989; or
c: in respect of an appointment under section 130, where a lawyer has been appointed under that section to provide to the court independent advice on any complex legal issue.
27: New section 131A inserted (Advice from chief executive or social worker)
After section 131
131A: Advice from chief executive or social worker
1: For the purpose of expediting an application for a guardianship order or parenting order, a Registrar, on his or her own initiative, may—
a: refer the application to the chief executive; and
b: request the chief executive to provide brief written advice on the nature and extent of any involvement that the department has had with the parties.
2: On receipt of a request for advice made under subsection (1)
3: The Registrar must refer advice received under subsection (2)
28: Section 133 replaced (Reports from other persons)
Replace section 133
133: Reports from other persons
Definitions
1: In this section,— application
a: means—
i: an application for guardianship; or
ii: an application for a parenting order; or
iii: an application under section 105(1); but
b: does not include an application for an interim order about the role of providing day-to-day care for a child approval subsection (10) cultural report materials
a: the psychological report; and
b: the report writer's notes; and
c: other materials the report writer used in preparing the psychological report medical report psychiatric report psychological report
a: how current arrangements for the child’s care are working for the child:
b: the child’s relationship with each party, including, if appropriate, the child's attachment to each party:
c: the child's relationship with other significant persons in the child's life:
d: the effect or likely effect on the child of each party's parenting skills:
e: the effect or likely effect on the child of the parties' ability or otherwise to co-operate in the parenting of the child:
f: the advantages and disadvantages for the child of the options for the care of the child:
g: any matter that the court specifies under subsection (5)(b)(ii) report writer
a: the person requested under subsection (2)
b: the psychologist requested under subsection (5) second opinion
a: a critique of a psychological report; and
b: a report covering the same matters as those covered by a psychological report. Court's power to obtain cultural reports, medical reports, or psychiatric reports
2: To obtain a written cultural report, medical report, or psychiatric report, the court may—
a: request a person whom the court considers qualified for the purpose to prepare one; or
b: direct the Registrar to request a person whom the Registrar considers qualified for the purpose to prepare one.
3: The court may act under subsection (2)
a: the information that the report will provide is essential for the proper disposition of the application; and
b: the report is the best source of the information, having regard to the quality, timeliness, and cost of other sources; and
c: the proceedings will not be unduly delayed by the time taken to prepare the report; and
d: any delay in the proceedings will not have an unacceptable effect on the child.
4: If the court is entitled by subsection (3) subsection (2) subsection (2) Court's power to obtain psychological reports
5: To obtain a written psychological report,—
a: the court may—
i: request a psychologist whom the court considers qualified for the purpose to prepare one; or
ii: direct the Registrar to request a psychologist whom the Registrar considers qualified for the purpose to prepare one; and
b: the court—
i: must specify which of the matters listed in paragraphs (a) to (f) subsection (1)
ii: may specify any matter not listed in paragraphs (a) to (f) subsection (1)
6: The court may act under subsection (5)
a: the court is satisfied that the information that the psychological report will provide is essential for the proper disposition of the application; and
b: the court is satisfied that the psychological report is the best source of the information, having regard to the quality, timeliness, and cost of other sources; and
c: the court is satisfied that the proceedings will not be unduly delayed by the time taken to prepare the psychological report; and
d: the court is satisfied that any delay in the proceedings will not have an unacceptable effect on the child; and
e: the court does not seek the psychological report solely or primarily to ascertain the child's wishes.
7: If the court is entitled by subsection (6) subsection (5) subsection (5) Court's power to direct meetings
8: If the court acts under subsection (2) or (5)
a: the child to meet with the report writer; or
b: 1 or more of the parties to meet with the report writer; or
c: the child and 1 or more of the parties to meet with the report writer.
9: If a party or the child fails to meet with the report writer as directed by the court,—
a: the report writer must notify the court; and
b: the court may make further directions. Second opinions
10: The approval of the court must be obtained before a second opinion may be prepared and presented.
11: The court may give approval only if there are exceptional circumstances.
12: A party who obtains the approval of the court for the preparation and presentation of a second opinion is liable for the costs of that opinion.
13: If the court gives approval, it may permit disclosure of the materials to the psychologist preparing the second opinion.
14: If the court declines to give approval to a party, or if a party does not seek approval, the court may permit disclosure of the materials to a psychologist who is employed by the party and who is not the report writer.
15: The court may permit disclosure under subsection (14)
29: Section 134 amended (Distribution, etc, of reports under sections 132 and 133)
In section 134(3)(b) section 130(1) section 130
30: Section 135 replaced (Costs of reports under section 133)
Replace section 135
135: Costs of reports requested under section 133
1: Fees for the preparation of reports requested under section 133
a: be determined in accordance with regulations made under section 16D
b: be paid in accordance with that determination out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.
2: Where in any proceedings a report requested under section 133 subsection (1) section 135A
135A: Order requiring reimbursement of costs payments
1: An order referred to in section 131(4) or 135(2) must require the parties to reimburse to the Crown the prescribed proportion of the amount paid by the Crown,—
a: under section 131(1)(b), in respect of the fees and expenses of a lawyer appointed under section 7 or 130:
b: under section 135(1)(b), in respect of a report requested under section 133.
2: Despite subsection (1), the court may decline to make an order against a party if satisfied that the order would cause serious hardship to the party or to a dependent child of the party.
3: Each party against whom an order is made under subsection (1)
4: Despite subsection (3), if the court is satisfied that, in view of the circumstances of the case, including the conduct of any party, it would be inappropriate to require a party to pay the amount payable in accordance with that subsection, the court may substitute, for that party, a different amount not exceeding the prescribed proportion.
5: In this section,— dependent child prescribed proportion serious hardship
a: includes significant financial difficulties that arise because of—
i: the party's inability to meet minimum living expenses according to normal community standards; or
ii: the cost of medical treatment for an illness or injury of the party or a dependent child of the party; or
iii: a serious illness suffered by the party or by a dependent child of the party; or
iv: the cost of education for a dependent child of the party:
b: does not include significant financial difficulties that arise because—
i: the social activities and entertainment of the party or those of a dependent child of the party may be limited; or
ii: the party is unable to afford goods or services that are expensive or of a high quality or standard according to normal community standards.
135B: Enforcement of orders made under section 135A
1: The amount that a party is ordered to reimburse under section 135A is a debt due to the Crown by that party and may be enforced in a District Court or the High Court, as the case may require, in the same manner as a judgment of that court.
2: Despite section 113 or 123 of the District Courts Act 1947 or section 100A of the Judicature Act 1908, no court fee is payable by a person who seeks to enforce, on behalf of the Crown, an order referred to in subsection (1), but the fee that would otherwise be payable—
a: is to be added to the amount sought to be enforced; and
b: must be paid to the Registrar of the court out of any proceeds that result from the enforcement.
3: For the purposes of section 14(1)(b) of the Crown Proceedings Act 1950, the Secretary may, on behalf of the Crown, enforce a debt under this section.
31: Section 137 amended (Attendance at hearings generally)
1: Replace section 137(1)(b)
b: parties to the proceedings:
ba: lawyers acting for the parties (if any): .
2: Replace section 137(1)(c)
c: lawyers appointed under section 7 or 130 .
3: Repeal section 137(1)(f)
4: Repeal section 137(4)(c)
5: Repeal section 137(5)
32: Section 138 repealed (Attendance at hearings of persons involved in counselling or conciliation under Family Proceedings Act 1980)
Repeal section 138
33: New section 139A inserted (Leave required in certain cases to commence substantially similar proceedings)
After section 139
139A: Leave required in certain cases to commence substantially similar proceedings
1: A proceeding (a new proceeding section 46R
a: is substantially similar to a proceeding previously filed in a Family Court by any person (a previous proceeding
b: is to be commenced less than 2 years after the final direction or order was given in the previous proceeding.
2: The leave of the court may only be given under subsection (1)
a: any party to the previous proceeding:
b: any child who was the subject of the previous proceeding.
3: In this section, a new proceeding is substantially similar
a: the party commencing the new proceeding was a party to the previous proceeding; and
b: a child who is the subject of the new proceeding was the subject of the previous proceeding; and
c: the new proceeding—
i: is commenced under the same provision of this Act as the previous proceeding; or
ii: is for an order varying the order made in the previous proceeding; or
iii: is for an order discharging the order made in the previous proceeding.
4: This section does not apply if every party to the new proceeding consents to its commencement.
34: Section 141 amended (Power to restrict commencement of proceedings)
In the heading to section 141 proceedings if vexatious proceedings previously instituted
35: Section 142 amended (Costs)
After section 142(2)
3: This section is subject to sections 131 and 135
36: Section 143 amended (Appeals to High Court)
1: In section 143(2) section 44 or section 46 section 46C or 46R
2: In section 143(3) (other than criminal proceedings or proceedings under section 44 or section 46)
3: After section 143(3)
3A: However, no appeal may be made to the High Court under subsection (3) in relation to—
a: any interlocutory or interim order made in the following kinds of proceedings:
i: criminal proceedings; or
ii: proceedings under section 46C
iii: proceedings under section 46R
b: a decision under—
i: section 7
ii: section 130
iii: section 133
c: a direction under section 7A(6)
37: Section 145 amended (Appeal to Court of Appeal)
In section 145(1)(a) section 44 or section 46 section 46C or 46R
38: Section 146 amended (Rules of court)
Repeal section 146(3)
39: Section 147 amended (Regulations)
1: Before section 147(2)(a)
aa: prescribing for the purposes of section 46H
ab: prescribing for the purposes of section 46I
i: that the approval was given on the basis of information that was false or misleading in a material respect; or
ii: that the organisation no longer satisfies any criteria for approval prescribed by regulations made under paragraph (aa)
iii: that the organisation has requested the suspension or cancellation of the approval; or
iv: that the organisation has been wound up, dissolved, or otherwise has ceased to exist:
ac: prescribing for the purposes of section 46K
i: to be a member of a professional body that the Secretary identifies as a professional body by notice in the Gazette
ii: to have a specified qualification:
iii: to have a specified level of counselling experience:
ad: prescribing for the purposes of section 46K
ae: prescribing for the purposes of section 46M section 46G
af: prescribing for the purposes of section 46N section 46G
ag: specifying for the purposes of sections 46O and 47B(2)
i: how a child may be affected when parents separate; and
ii: how the needs of a child may be met when parents separate: .
2: In section 147(2)(a)
a: replace section 62(2) section 60(2)
b: replace section 60(5) section 59(2)
3: In section 147(2)(b)
a: replace section 62(3) section 60(3)
b: replace section 60(5) section 59(2)
c: replace section 62(2) section 60(2)
4: Repeal section 147(2)(c)
5: Replace section 147(2)(d)
d: prescribing, for the purposes of section 135A
i: section 131(1)(b)
ii: section 135(1)(b) .
40: Section 148 amended (Other Acts not affected)
In section 148(2) 69 and
41: Section 152 replaced (Repeal)
Replace section 152
152: Repeals
The following Acts are repealed:
a: Guardianship Act 1968 (1968 No 63):
b: Care of Children Amendment Act 2008 (2008 No 74):
c: Care of Children Amendment Act 2013 (2013 No 45).
42: Cross-heading above section 153 replaced
Replace the cross-heading above section 153 Saving and transitional provisions on enactment of this Act .
43: New section 165 and cross-heading inserted
After section 164 Transitional provision applying on enactment of Care of Children Amendment Act (No 2) 2013
165: Proceedings commenced before commencement of this section but not completed
1: This section applies to proceedings under this Act that were commenced before the date of commencement of this section but were not by that date completed (a pending proceeding
2: The following provisions do not apply to a pending proceeding:
a: section 7A
b: section 135A
c: section 135B
3: The following provisions, as in force immediately before the date of commencement of this section, continue to apply to a pending proceeding with any necessary modifications as if the Care of Children Amendment Act (No 2) 2013
a: section 131; and
b: section 135; and
c: section 137.
4: If section 57, as in force immediately before the date of commencement of this section, applied in respect of any interim order, section 57 continues to apply in respect of that order as if the Care of Children Amendment Act (No 2) 2013
5: If in any pending proceeding there is in force immediately before the date of commencement of this section an order for supervised contact between a child who is the subject of the proceeding and any party, sections 62 and 147(2)(a) and (b) continue to apply in respect of that proceeding as if the Care of Children Amendment Act (No 2) 2013
6: If in any pending proceeding a referral to counselling was made either on the court's initiative (under section 45) or on the request of a party (under section 65) and that counselling was arranged or was in progress immediately before the date of commencement of this section,—
a: sections 66, 67, 69, and 138 continue to apply as if the Care of Children Amendment Act (No 2) 2013
b: the counselling may not start or continue 4 months after the date of commencement of this section.


Child Support Amendment Act (No 3) 2013

1: Title
This Act is the Child Support Amendment Act (No 3) 2013.
2: Commencement
This Act comes into force on 1 October 2014 unless it is earlier brought into force on a date appointed by the Governor-General by Order in Council. Section 2 brought into force 31 March 2014 Child Support Amendment Act (No 3) 2013 Commencement Order 2014
3: Principal Act
This Act amends the Child Support Act 1991 principal Act OIC LI 2014/89 2014-03-31 Child Support Act 1991 Brought into force on 31 March 2014 by LI 2014/89/2
4: Section 120 amended (Appeal from decisions of courts)
After section 120(1)
1AA: However, no appeal may be made to the High Court under subsection (1) in relation to a decision under—
a: section 226
b: section 226A
5: Section 226 replaced (Appointment of barrister or solicitor to assist court or represent children)
Replace section 226
226: Appointment of lawyer to represent child in proceedings
1: In any proceedings under this Act (other than criminal proceedings), a court may appoint a lawyer to represent any child who is—
a: the subject of the proceedings; or
b: a party to the proceedings.
2: An appointment under subsection (1)
226A: Appointment of lawyer to assist court
In any proceedings under this Act (other than criminal proceedings), a court may—
a: appoint a lawyer to assist the court; or
b: direct the Registrar of the court to appoint a lawyer to assist the court.
226B: Fees and expenses of lawyer appointed under section 226 or 226A
1: The fees and expenses of a lawyer appointed under section 226 or 226A must—
a: be determined in accordance with regulations made under section 16D of the Family Courts Act 1980 or, if no such regulations are made, by the Registrar of the court; and
b: be paid in accordance with that determination out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.
2: An invoice rendered by a lawyer appointed under section 226 or 226A for fees and expenses must be given to the Registrar of the court in which the proceedings were heard, and the Registrar may decide to adjust the amount of the invoice.
3: A lawyer who is dissatisfied with the decision of the Registrar as to the amount of the invoice may, within 14 days after the date of the decision, apply to a Family Court Judge to review the decision, and the Judge may on the application make any order varying or confirming the decision that the Judge considers fair and reasonable.
4: Where in any proceedings a lawyer has been appointed under section 226 or 226A and the fees and expenses relating to that appointment have been paid under subsection (1), the court must make an order under section 226C, unless the court declines to do so in accordance with that section.
5: However, no order under section 226C may be made—
a: against the Crown, whether acting through the department for the time being responsible for the administration of this Act or otherwise; or
b: in respect of an appointment under section 226A, where a lawyer has been appointed under that section to provide to the court independent legal advice on any complex legal issue.
226C: Order requiring reimbursement of costs payments
1: An order referred to in section 226B(4) must require the parties to reimburse to the Crown the prescribed proportion of the amount paid by the Crown, under section 226B(1)(b), in respect of the fees and expenses of a lawyer appointed under section 226 or 226A.
2: Despite subsection (1), the court may decline to make an order against a party if satisfied that the order would cause serious hardship to the party or to a dependent child of the party.
3: Each party against whom an order is made under subsection (1) must pay an equal share of the prescribed proportion.
4: Despite subsection (3), if the court is satisfied that, in view of the circumstances of the case, including the conduct of any party, it would be inappropriate to require a party to pay the amount payable in accordance with that subsection, the court may substitute, for that party, a different amount not exceeding the prescribed proportion.
5: In this section,— dependent child, prescribed proportion section 135A serious hardship
a: includes significant financial difficulties that arise because of—
i: the party's inability to meet minimum living expenses according to normal community standards; or
ii: the cost of medical treatment for an illness or injury of the party or a dependent child of the party; or
iii: a serious illness suffered by the party or by a dependent child of the party; or
iv: the cost of education for a dependent child of the party:
b: does not include significant financial difficulties that arise because—
i: the social activities and entertainment of the party or those of a dependent child of the party may be limited; or
ii: the party is unable to afford goods or services that are expensive or of a high quality or standard according to normal community standards.
226D: Enforcement of orders made under section 226C
1: The amount that a party is ordered to reimburse under section 226C is a debt due to the Crown by that party and may be enforced in a District Court or the High Court, as the case may require, in the same manner as a judgment of that court.
2: Despite section 113 or 123 of the District Courts Act 1947 or section 100A of the Judicature Act 1908, no court fee is payable by a person who seeks to enforce, on behalf of the Crown, an order referred to in subsection (1), but the fee that would otherwise be payable—
a: is to be added to the amount sought to be enforced; and
b: must be paid to the Registrar of the court out of any proceeds that result from the enforcement.
3: For the purposes of section 14(1)(b) of the Crown Proceedings Act 1950, the Secretary for Justice may, on behalf of the Crown, enforce a debt under this section.
6: Section 232 amended (Costs)
In section 232
2: This section is subject to section 226B(4)
7: Section 235 amended (Regulations)
Repeal section 235(1)(d)
8: New section 268A and cross-heading inserted
After section 268 Child Support Amendment Act (No 3) 2013
268A: Transitional provision for proceedings commenced before commencement of Child Support Amendment Act (No 3) 2013 but not completed
1: This section applies to proceedings under this Act that were commenced before the date of commencement of the Child Support Amendment Act (No 3) 2013 pending proceeding
2: The following provisions do not apply to a pending proceeding:
a: section 226A
b: section 226B
c: section 226C
d: section 226D
3: Section 226, as in force immediately before the date of commencement of the Child Support Amendment Act (No 3) 2013 Child Support Amendment Act (No 3) 2013
9: Consequential repeal
The Child Support Amendment Act (No 2) 2013 2014-03-31 Child Support Amendment Act (No 2) 2013 brought into force by 2014/89/2 on 31 March 2014


1: Title
This Act is the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Amendment Act 2013.
2: Commencement
This Act comes into force on 1 October 2014 unless it is earlier brought into force on a date appointed by the Governor-General by Order in Council. Section 2 brought into force 31 March 2014 Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Amendment Act 2013 Commencement Order 2014
3: Principal Act
This Act amends the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989 principal Act OIC LI 2014/90 2014-03-31 Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989 unless it is earlier brought into force on a date appointed by the Governor-General by Order in Council
4: Section 137 amended (Court to consider report and make directions)
1: In section 137(1) , after giving such persons (if any) as it thinks fit an opportunity to be heard,
2: After section 137(1)
1A: When considering the report and revised plan, the court may, but need not, give to any person the opportunity to be heard.
5: Section 159 amended (Appointment of barrister or solicitor to represent child or young person)
1: Replace the heading to section 159 Appointment of lawyer to represent child or young person in proceedings
2: In section 159 barrister or solicitor lawyer
3: In section 159(3)(a) barrister's or solicitor's lawyer's
6: Sections 160 and 161 replaced
Replace sections 160 161
160: Appointment of lawyer to assist court
In any proceedings in a Family Court under Part 2 or 3A, the court may—
a: appoint a lawyer to assist the court; or
b: direct the Registrar of the court to appoint a lawyer to assist the court.
161: Further provisions relating to appointment under section 159 or 160
1: A lawyer appointed under section 159—
a: must be served with all documents required to be served on the parties to the proceedings; and
b: may—
i: request the court to obtain any report that the court is empowered to obtain for the purposes of the proceedings:
ii: act on behalf of the child or young person in respect of any matter relating to the detention of that child or young person in secure care, or the care of that child or young person in a residence.
2: A lawyer appointed under section 160
a: must be served with all documents required to be served on the parties to the proceedings; and
b: may request the court to obtain any report that the court is empowered to obtain for the purposes of the proceedings.
7: Section 162 replaced (Payment of barrister or solicitor appointed under section 159 or section 160)
Replace section 162
162: Payment of lawyer appointed under section 159 or 160
1: The fees and expenses of any lawyer appointed under section 159 or 160
a: be determined in accordance with regulations made under section 16D
b: be paid in accordance with that determination out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.
2: An invoice rendered by a lawyer appointed under section 159 or 160 for fees and expenses must be given to the Registrar of the court in which the proceedings were heard, and the Registrar may decide to adjust the amount of the invoice.
3: A lawyer who is dissatisfied with the decision of the Registrar as to the amount of the invoice may, within 14 days after the date of the decision, apply to a Family Court Judge to review the decision, and the Judge may on the application make any order varying or confirming the decision that the Judge considers fair and reasonable.
4: Where the fees and expenses of a lawyer appointed under section 159 or 160 have been paid under subsection (1)(b), the court may, if it thinks it is appropriate, order a party to the proceedings to refund to the Crown an amount that the court specifies in respect of those fees and expenses, and the amount ordered to be refunded is a debt due to the Crown by that party and, in default of payment of that amount, payment may be enforced, by order of a District Court or the High Court, as the case may require, in the same manner as a judgment of that court.
8: New sections 206A and 206B inserted
After section 206
206A: Leave required in certain cases to commence substantially similar proceedings
1: A proceeding (a new proceeding
a: is substantially similar to a proceeding previously filed in a Family Court by any person (a previous proceeding
b: is to be commenced less than 2 years after the final direction or order was given in the previous proceeding.
2: The leave of the court may only be given under subsection (1)
a: any party to the previous proceeding:
b: any child or young person who was the subject of the previous proceeding.
3: In this section, a new proceeding is substantially similar
a: the party commencing the new proceeding was a party to the previous proceeding; and
b: a child who is the subject of the new proceeding was the subject of the previous proceeding; and
c: the new proceeding—
i: is commenced under the same provision of this Act as the previous proceeding; or
ii: is for an order varying the order made in the previous proceeding; or
iii: is for an order discharging the order made in the previous proceeding.
4: This section does not apply if—
a: every party to the new proceeding consents to its commencement; or
b: the new proceeding is commenced by—
i: the chief executive; or
ii: a social worker; or
iii: an iwi social service; or
iv: a cultural social service; or
v: the director of a child and family support service; or
vi: a constable.
206B: Power to dismiss proceedings
The court may dismiss proceedings before it under Part 2 if it is satisfied—
a: that the proceedings relate to a specified child and that the continuation of the proceedings is, in the particular circumstances, clearly contrary to the welfare and best interests of the child; or
b: that the proceedings are frivolous or vexatious or an abuse of the procedure of the court.
9: Section 447 amended (Regulations)
Repeal section 447(e)(i)


Domestic Violence Amendment Act 2013

1: Title
This Act is the Domestic Violence Amendment Act 2013.
2: Commencement
1: The following provisions come into force on the day after the date on which this Act receives the Royal assent:
a: section 5
b: section 11(1)
c: section 13 Part 2A new sections 51A and 51B section 51B
d: section 17(1)
2: The rest of this Act comes into force on a date appointed by the Governor-General by Order in Council, and 1 or more Orders in Council may be made bringing different provisions into force on different dates.
3: Any provision that has not earlier been brought into force comes into force on 1 October 2014 Section 2(2) brought into force 31 March 2014 Domestic Violence Amendment Act 2013 Commencement Order 2014
3: Principal Act
This Act Domestic Violence Act 1995 principal Act 2013-09-25 Domestic Violence Act 1995 see section 2(1) OIC SR 2014/91 2014-03-31 Domestic Violence Act 1995 re section 2(2): Sections 3, 4(1), 8, 16 and 17(2) come into force on 31 March 2014. 2014-10-01 Domestic Violence Act 1995 sections 4(2), 6, 7, 9, 10, 11(2), rest of 13, 14, 15, 17(3), 18, 19 still to come into force
4: Section 2 amended (Interpretation)
1: In section 2 contact
2: In section 2 approved agency programme programme provider
5: Section 3 amended (Meaning of domestic violence)
After section 3(2)(c)(iv)
iva: financial or economic abuse (for example, denying or limiting access to financial resources, or preventing or restricting employment opportunities or access to education):
6: Section 5 amended (Object)
1: In section 5(2)(c) programmes safety programmes
2: In section 5(2)(d) programmes non-violence programmes
7: Section 13 amended (Application without notice for protection order)
1: Replace section 13(4)(e)
e: where a direction is made under section 51D section 51E
2: Replace section 13(5)(e)
e: where a direction is made under section 51D section 51E
8: Section 19 amended (Standard conditions of protection order)
1: In section 19(2)(e)(iv) 1989 ; or
2: After section 19(2)(e)(iv)
v: as is necessary for the purposes of attending a settlement conference convened under section 46Q
9: Sections 29 to 44 and cross-heading above section 29 repealed
Repeal sections 29 to 44
10: Section 46 amended (Power to vary protection order)
1: In section 46(1)(c) and (d) section 32 section 51D
2: In section 46(2)(c) and (d) section 32 section 51D
11: Section 49 amended (Offence to breach protection order)
1: In section 49(3) 2 years 3 years
2: In section 49(4) section 32(1) or (2) to attend a specified programme section 51D
12: Section 49A repealed (Offence to fail to comply with direction)
Repeal section 49A
13: New Part 2A inserted
After Part 2
2A: Programmes
51A: Interpretation
In this Part, unless the context otherwise requires,— approval section 51B assessment
a: the extent to which the respondent poses a safety risk to any person or the public; and
b: what, if any, non-violence programme is the most appropriate for the respondent to attend non-violence programme
a: is provided by a service provider; and
b: is provided to a respondent; and
c: has the primary objective of stopping or preventing domestic violence on the part of the respondent programmes
a: safety programmes; and
b: non-violence programmes respondent safety programme
a: is provided by a service provider; and
b: is provided to a protected person; and
c: has the primary objective of promoting (whether by education, information, support, or otherwise) the protection of the protected person from domestic violence service provider
a: undertake assessments:
b: provide programmes. Approval of service providers
51B: Service providers
1: The Secretary may decide to grant, suspend, or cancel an approval of a person or an organisation as a service provider.
2: A person or an organisation seeking an approval under subsection (1) section 127(a)(i)
3: In deciding whether to grant, suspend, or cancel an approval under subsection (1) section 127(a)(ii)
4: The Secretary must publish on an Internet site maintained by or on behalf of the Ministry of Justice a list of service providers. Safety programmes
51C: Safety programmes for protected persons
1: Where the court makes a protection order,—
a: the applicant, or the applicant's representative, may request the Registrar to authorise the provision of a safety programme to all or any of the following persons:
i: the applicant:
ii: a child of the applicant's family:
iii: a specified person; and
b: a specified person (other than a child) may request the Registrar to authorise the provision of a safety programme to that specified person if no request has been made under paragraph (a)(iii)
2: Where, at the time the protection order is made, the applicant has not made a request pursuant to this section, and the applicant is not legally represented, the Judge or the Registrar must cause the applicant to be informed of the applicant's right to make such a request.
3: A request may be made under subsection (1)
4: Where a request is made to a Registrar under subsection (1)
5: The number of safety programme sessions to be provided to a protected person by a service provider to whom a referral has been made under subsection (4)
6: Every lawyer acting for an applicant for a protection order must—
a: ensure that the applicant is aware of the applicant's right to make a request under this section; and
b: where the applicant wishes to exercise that right, take such further steps as the lawyer considers necessary to enable the applicant to do so. Non-violence programmes
51D: Direction to attend assessment and non-violence programme
1: On making a protection order, the court must direct the respondent to—
a: undertake an assessment; and
b: attend a non-violence programme.
2: The court need not make a direction under subsection (1)
a: there is no service provider available; or
b: the court considers that there is any other good reason for not making a direction.
51E: Direction to attend non-violence programme made on application without notice
1: This section applies where the court makes a direction under section 51D
2: Where this section applies,—
a: the direction does not take effect until 10 working days after a copy of the direction is served on the respondent; and
b: the respondent may, within those 10 working days, notify the court that he or she objects to the direction.
3: Where the respondent notifies the court, in accordance with subsection (2)(b)
a: the Registrar must, if the respondent wishes to be heard, assign a hearing date, which must be—
i: as soon as practicable; and
ii: unless there are special circumstances, in no case later than 42 days after receipt of the notice of objection; and
b: the direction is suspended from the date on which the court receives the notice of objection until the court, after considering the respondent's objection, confirms (whether with or without variation) or discharges the direction.
4: Nothing in this section or section 51F
51F: Court may confirm or discharge direction after considering objection made under section 51E
1: After considering an objection, made under section 51E
a: confirm the direction; or
b: vary the direction; or
c: discharge the direction.
2: Where, pursuant to subsection (1)
3: Failure to give the warning required by subsection (2)
51G: Referral of respondent to service provider
1: After the court has made a direction under section 51D
a: arrange for the respondent to be referred to a service provider; and
b: notify the service provider of the direction made under section 51D
2: This section is subject to section 51E
51H: Service provider to meet with respondent
As soon as possible after receiving a notification under section 51G
a: undertake an assessment of the respondent; and
b: determine whether there is an appropriate non-violence programme for the respondent to attend.
51I: Service provider to notify Registrar about safety concerns
1: This section applies if a service provider has concerns about the safety of a protected person—
a: after undertaking an assessment of the respondent; or
b: during the provision of a non-violence programme to a respondent.
2: The service provider must, without delay, notify the Registrar of those concerns.
3: On receiving a notification under subsection (2)
a: forward a copy of the notification to a Judge; and
b: arrange for the protected person to be advised of the service provider's concerns.
4: On receiving a copy of a notification under subsection (3)(a)
51J: Referral to different service provider
1: This section applies if a service provider, after undertaking an assessment of the respondent,—
a: determines that there is an appropriate non-violence programme for the respondent to attend; but
b: is not able to provide that programme to the respondent.
2: The service provider must—
a: notify the Registrar; and
b: send to the Registrar the following information:
i: the result of the assessment of the respondent undertaken by the service provider; and
ii: any other information relating to the respondent that is held by the service provider.
3: After receiving a notification under subsection (2)(a) subsection (2)(b) section 51G
51K: Judge may discharge direction to attend non-violence programme in certain cases
1: This section applies if a service provider, after undertaking an assessment of a respondent, determines that—
a: there is an appropriate non-violence programme for the respondent to attend but that—
i: the respondent's attendance at the programme should be delayed to enable other matters to first be addressed; or
ii: it would not be appropriate for the respondent to attend the programme; or
b: there is not an appropriate non-violence programme for the respondent to attend.
2: The service provider must notify the Registrar, and the Registrar must bring the matter to the attention of a Judge.
3: When a matter is brought to the attention of a Judge under subsection (2)
a: discharge the direction made under section 51D(1)(b)
b: make such other orders or directions as the Judge thinks fit in the circumstances.
51L: Service provider and respondent to settle terms of attendance at non-violence programme
1: Before providing a non-violence programme to a respondent, the service provider must settle in writing with the respondent the terms of attendance, which must include—
a: the number of programme sessions that the respondent must attend; and
b: the place, date, and time of the first programme session, and all subsequent sessions, that the respondent must attend.
2: The service provider must provide to the Registrar a copy of the terms of attendance that the service provider has settled with the respondent.
3: If a service provider is not able to settle with a respondent the terms of attendance, the service provider must notify the Registrar.
4: On receipt of a notice under subsection (3)
a: settle the terms of attendance with the respondent and the service provider; or
b: bring the matter to the attention of a Judge.
5: When a matter is brought to the attention of a Judge under subsection (4)(b)
51M: Notice to be given to court if continued provision of non-violence programme inappropriate
1: Subsection (2)
a: it is no longer appropriate or practicable for the service provider to provide the programme to the respondent; or
b: the respondent is not participating fully in the programme, and that this is significantly affecting the respondent's ability to benefit fully from the programme.
2: The service provider must—
a: notify the Registrar; and
b: send to the Registrar all information relating to the respondent that is held by the service provider.
3: After receiving a notification under subsection (2)(a) subsection (2)(b)
a: make a new referral under section 51G
b: bring the matter to the attention of a Judge.
4: When a matter is brought to the attention of a Judge under subsection (3)(b) Non-compliance with direction to attend assessment and non-violence programme
51N: Notice of non-compliance with direction
1: This section applies if the court makes a direction under section 51D
a: undertake an assessment with the service provider to whom notice of the direction has been given under section 51G
b: attend a non-violence programme in accordance with terms of attendance settled under section 51L
2: The service provider must give written notice to the Registrar of the respondent's failure.
3: Notice under subsection (2)
51O: Powers of Registrar on receipt of notice under section 51N
1: On receiving a notice under section 51N
a: exercise the powers under section 82, as if he or she were the court referred to in that section, to call the respondent before the court; or
b: bring the matter to the attention of a Judge so that the Judge may consider whether to exercise the power conferred by section 51P
2: If the Registrar exercises the powers under section 82 in the manner allowed by subsection (1)(a)
51P: Judge may call respondent before court
1: If, under section 51O(1)(b) subsection (2)
2: A Judge may exercise the powers under section 82 to call the respondent before the court.
3: If a Judge exercises the powers under section 82, that section applies, so far as applicable and with all necessary modifications, as if the respondent were a witness in proceedings.
51Q: Respondent called before court
1: If a respondent appears before the court under section 51O(1)(a) or 51P(2)
2: If the court confirms or varies a direction under subsection (1)
3: Failure to give the warning required by subsection (2) Completion of non-violence programme
51R: Notice of completion and outcome of non-violence programme
1: When a respondent has completed a non-violence programme, the service provider must, without delay, provide to the Registrar a report that—
a: states whether, in the opinion of the service provider, the respondent has achieved the objectives of the non-violence programme; and
b: advises of any concerns that the service provider has about the safety of any protected person.
2: On receiving a report under subsection (1)
a: forward a copy of that report to a Judge; and
b: arrange for the protected person to be notified—
i: that the respondent has completed a non-violence programme; and
ii: that a report has been provided by the service provider of that non-violence programme under subsection (1)
iii: of any concerns that the service provider has about the safety of the protected person advised in that report.
3: On receiving a copy of a report under subsection (2)(a) Confidentiality of information
51S: Confidentiality of information disclosed to service provider
1: In this section, unless the context otherwise requires, information
2: Information received by a service provider in the course of providing a programme may not—
a: be disclosed to any other person; or
b: be admitted as evidence in any court or before any person acting judicially.
3: However, nothing in subsection (2)
a: for the purpose of giving a notification to a Registrar under—
i: section 51I(2)
ii: section 51J(2)
iii: section 51K(2)
iv: section 51L(3)
v: section 51M(2)
b: for the purpose of a Registrar making a referral under—
i: section 51J(3)
ii: section 51M(3)(a)
c: for the purpose of any proceedings under—
i: section 51O
ii: section 51P
d: for the purposes of investigating or prosecuting—
i: an offence against section 51T
ii: an offence committed or alleged to have been committed during the provision of a programme:
e: in circumstances in which the service provider believes, on reasonable grounds, that the disclosure is necessary to prevent or lessen a serious threat to public safety or the safety of any person:
f: with the authority of the person who disclosed the information to the service provider. Enforcement of directions
51T: Offence to fail to comply with direction
A respondent who fails, without reasonable excuse, to comply with a direction made under section 51D
a: a fine not exceeding $5,000; or
b: a term of imprisonment not exceeding 6 months.
14: Section 76 amended (Respondent to notify intention to appear)
In section 76(2)(b) 36 51E
15: Section 77 amended (Procedure where respondent does not require hearing)
In section 77(1) 36 51E
16: Section 81 amended (Court may appoint lawyer)
1: In section 81(2) this section subsection (1)(c)
2: After section 81(2)
2A: The fees and expenses of a lawyer appointed under subsection (1)(a) or (b) must—
a: be determined in accordance with regulations made under section 16D
b: be paid in accordance with that determination out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.
3: Replace section 81(3)
3: The fees and expenses of a lawyer appointed under subsection (1)(c) must—
a: be determined in accordance with regulations made under this Act or, if no such regulations are made, by the Registrar of the court; and
b: be paid in accordance with that determination out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.
4: Replace section 81(4)
4: An invoice rendered by a lawyer appointed under this section for fees and expenses must be given to the Registrar of the court in which the proceedings were heard, and the Registrar may decide to adjust the amount of the invoice.
5: In section 81(5) bill invoice
17: Section 127 amended (Regulations)
1: Replace section 127(a) to (e)
a: prescribing for the purposes of section 51B
i: the process to be followed by a person or an organisation seeking an approval; and
ii: the criteria that the Secretary must apply when deciding whether to grant, suspend, or cancel an approval:
b: prescribing the amount of fees and expenses, or a method for calculating the amount of fees and expenses, payable for the provision of assessments and programmes under Part 2A
2: In section 127(f) section 81 section 81(1)(c)
3: In section 127(g) section 42 section 51O or 51P
18: Cross-heading above section 133 replaced
Replace the cross-heading above section 133 Transitional provisions on enactment of this Act
19: New sections 134 to 138 and cross-heading inserted
After section 133 Transitional provisions applying on enactment of Domestic Violence Amendment Act 2013
134: Programmes requested or directed before commencement of this section
1: Subsection (2)
a: an applicant or a specified person made a request under section 29; but
b: the Registrar had not referred the request to a programme provider.
2: The Registrar must refer the request to a service provider under section 51C
3: Subsections (4) and (5) apply if, before the date of commencement of this section,—
a: a direction under section 32 was made in any proceeding; but
b: the Registrar had not, under section 34, notified the programme provider of that direction.
4: The direction under section 32 must be treated as a direction made under section 51D to—
a: undertake an assessment; and
b: attend a non-violence programme.
5: The Registrar must, under section 51G,—
a: make a referral to a service provider; and
b: notify the service provider of the referral.
135: Referrals to programme providers before commencement of this section
1: Subsections (2) and (3)
a: a request made to a Registrar under section 29 was referred to a programme provider; but
b: the programme provider had not arranged or commenced the provision of a programme in response to that request.
2: The programme provider must—
a: advise the Registrar of the position; and
b: take no further step in respect of the referral.
3: The Registrar must arrange for the matter to be referred to a service provider under section 51C
4: Subsections (5) to (7) apply if, before the date of commencement of this section,—
a: a notification under section 34 was given to a programme provider of a direction made under section 32 in any proceedings; but
b: the programme provider had not arranged or commenced the provision of a programme in response to that notification.
5: The programme provider must—
a: advise the Registrar of the position; and
b: take no further step in respect of the notification.
6: The direction under section 32 must be treated as a direction made under section 51D to—
a: undertake an assessment; and
b: attend a non-violence programme.
7: The Registrar must, under section 51G
a: make a referral to a service provider; and
b: notify the service provider of the referral.
136: Programmes arranged or in progress before commencement of this section
1: This section applies if—
a: there was arranged or was in progress immediately before the date of commencement of this section—
i: the provision of a programme to a protected person that has been requested under section 29:
ii: the provision of a programme to a respondent or an associated respondent that the respondent or associated respondent has been directed under section 32 to attend; and
b: that programme has not been concluded by that date.
2: The provisions of this Act, as in force immediately before the date of commencement of this section, continue to apply in respect of the provision of that programme as if the Domestic Violence Amendment Act 2013
137: Proceedings commenced before commencement of this section but not completed
1: This section applies if, at any time before the date of commencement of this section, proceedings have been commenced under any of the following provisions but were not by that date completed (a pending proceeding
a: section 42:
b: section 46:
c: section 49A.
2: The provisions of this Act, as in force immediately before the date of commencement of this section, continue to apply to a pending proceeding as if the Domestic Violence Amendment Act 2013
138: Approval panel disestablished
1: The approval panel established by regulation 46 of the Domestic Violence (Programmes) Regulations 1996 is disestablished.
2: No member of the panel is entitled to compensation for loss of office resulting from the disestablishment of the panel.
3: An approval given by the panel under Part 3 of the Domestic Violence (Programmes) Regulations 1996 before the date of commencement of this section is of no effect on or after that date.


Family Courts Amendment Act 2013

1: Title
This Act is the Family Courts Amendment Act 2013.
2: Commencement
This Act comes into force on 1 October 2014 unless it is earlier brought into force on a date appointed by the Governor-General by Order in Council. Section 2 brought into force 31 March 2014 Family Courts Amendment Act 2013 Commencement Order 2014
3: Principal Act
This Act amends the Family Courts Act 1980 principal Act OIC LI 2014/92 2014-03-31 Family Courts Act 1980 unless it is earlier brought into force on a date appointed by the Governor-General by Order in Council.
4: New sections 9A to 9C inserted
After section 9
9A: Duty of lawyers to promote conciliation
1: A lawyer acting for a party in any proceeding in the Family Court must, so far as possible, promote conciliation.
2: In subsection (1) party
9B: Role of lawyer appointed to represent child or young person in proceedings
1: The role of a lawyer who is appointed to represent a child or young person in proceedings is to—
a: act for the child or young person in the proceedings in a way that the lawyer considers promotes the welfare and best interests of the child or young person:
b: ensure that any views expressed by the child or young person to the lawyer on matters affecting the child or young person and relevant to the proceedings are communicated to the court:
c: assist the parties to reach agreement on the matters in dispute in the proceedings to the extent to which doing so is in the best interests of the child or young person:
d: provide advice to the child or young person, at a level commensurate with that child's or young person's level of understanding, about—
i: any right of appeal against a decision of the court; and
ii: the merits of pursuing any such appeal:
e: undertake any other task required by or under any other Act.
2: To facilitate the role set out in subsection (1)(b)
3: However, subsection (2)
4: A lawyer appointed to represent a child or young person in proceedings may—
a: call any person as a witness in the proceedings:
b: cross-examine witnesses called by any party to the proceedings or by the court.
9C: Role of lawyer appointed to assist court
1: The role of a lawyer who is appointed to assist the court in proceedings is to—
a: provide independent legal advice to the court on any complex factual or legal issue requested by the court:
b: offer an impartial perspective in relation to any issue arising in the proceedings:
c: undertake any other task required by or under any other Act.
2: A lawyer appointed to assist the court in proceedings may—
a: call any person as a witness in the proceedings:
b: cross-examine witnesses called by any party to the proceedings or by the court.
5: New section 12A inserted (Evidence)
After section 12
12A: Evidence
1: This section applies to a proceeding—
a: under an Act specified in subsection (2)
b: in a court described in subsection (3)
2: The Acts referred to in subsection (1)(a)
a: Adoption Act 1955:
b: Care of Children Act 2004:
c: Child Support Act 1991:
d: Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989:
e: Domestic Violence Act 1995:
f: Family Proceedings Act 1980:
g: Property (Relationships) Act 1976:
h: Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988.
3: The courts referred to in subsection (1)(b)
a: a Family Court:
b: a District Court that has concurrent jurisdiction with a Family Court:
c: a District Court acting under section 15:
d: a District Court hearing a proceeding under section 151 of the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989:
e: any other court hearing a proceeding that is—
i: under an Act specified in subsection (2)
ii: not a criminal proceeding; and
iii: one in which the court receives evidence or further evidence.
4: The effect of section 5(3) of the Evidence Act 2006 is that that Act applies to the proceeding. However, the court hearing the proceeding may receive any evidence, whether or not admissible under the Evidence Act 2006, that the court considers may assist it to determine the proceeding.
6: Section 16B amended (Regulations)
1: In the heading to section 16B Regulations relating to court fees
2: Repeal section 16B(1)(g)
7: New section 16D inserted (Regulations relating to payments to professionals)
After section 16C
16D: Regulations relating to payments to professionals
Fees and expenses for lawyers for child and lawyers to assist court
1: In subsections (2) to (5), lawyer
a: a lawyer appointed under any of the following provisions to represent a child or young person:
i: section 7 of the Care of Children Act 2004:
ii: section 226 of the Child Support Act 1991:
iii: section 159 of the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989:
iv: section 81(1)(b) of the Domestic Violence Act 1995:
v: section 162 of the Family Proceedings Act 1980:
vi: section 37A of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976; or
b: a lawyer appointed under any of the following provisions to assist the court:
i: section 130 of the Care of Children Act 2004:
ii: section 226A of the Child Support Act 1991:
iii: section 160 of the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989:
iv: section 81(1)(a) of the Domestic Violence Act 1995:
v: section 162A of the Family Proceedings Act 1980:
vi: section 65A of the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988.
2: The Governor-General may, from time to time, by Order in Council, make regulations for determining—
a: the fees payable to a lawyer in respect of the lawyer's appointment:
b: the expenses payable to a lawyer in respect of the lawyer's appointment.
3: Regulations under subsection (2)(a) may—
a: prescribe the maximum hourly rate or rates for the fee payable, and different rates may be prescribed depending on—
i: the complexity of the proceedings:
ii: the number of proceedings in which the lawyer is engaged during a specified period:
b: prescribe the maximum number of hours for which the fee is payable, and different numbers of hours may be prescribed depending on—
i: the complexity of the proceedings:
ii: the number of proceedings in which the lawyer is engaged during a specified period:
c: provide that any rate prescribed under paragraph (a), or any number of hours prescribed under paragraph (b), or both, may be increased by the court in a particular proceeding if the court is satisfied that the increase is justified because of exceptional circumstances.
4: If no regulations are made under subsection (2)(a) in respect of any lawyer, the fees payable to that lawyer are to be determined by the Registrar of the court.
5: Regulations under subsection (2)(b) may prescribe—
a: the types of expenses for which a lawyer may claim reimbursement:
b: the rate of reimbursement of those expenses:
c: the circumstances in which expenses may be reimbursed. Fees and expenses for report writers under Care of Children Act 2004
6: In subsections (7) to (10), report writer
a: a person who prepares a cultural report when requested to do so under section 133(2) of the Care of Children Act 2004:
b: a person who prepares a medical report when requested to do so under section 133(2) of the Care of Children Act 2004:
c: a person who prepares a psychiatric report when requested to do so under section 133(2) of the Care of Children Act 2004:
d: a person who prepares a psychological report when requested to do so under section 133(5) of the Care of Children Act 2004.
7: The Governor-General may, from time to time, by Order in Council, make regulations for determining—
a: the fees payable to a report writer for doing either or both of the following:
i: preparing a report:
ii: attending as a witness in the proceedings for which the report writer prepared the report:
b: the expenses payable to a report writer for doing either or both of the following:
i: preparing a report:
ii: attending as a witness in the proceedings for which the report writer prepared the report.
8: Regulations under subsection (7)(a) may—
a: prescribe the maximum hourly rate or rates for the fee payable, and different rates may be prescribed depending on—
i: the type of report:
ii: the complexity of the proceedings:
iii: the number of proceedings in which the report-writer is engaged during a specified period:
b: prescribe the maximum number of hours for which the fee is payable, and different numbers of hours may be prescribed depending on—
i: the type of report:
ii: the complexity of the proceedings:
iii: the number of proceedings in which the report-writer is engaged during a specified period:
c: provide that any rate prescribed under paragraph (a), or any number of hours prescribed under paragraph (b), or both, may be increased by the court in a particular proceeding if the court is satisfied that the increase is justified because of exceptional circumstances.
9: If no regulations are made under subsection (7)(a) in respect of any report writer, the fees payable to that report writer are to be determined by the Registrar of the court.
10: Regulations under subsection (7)(b) may prescribe the following:
a: the types of expenses for which a report writer may claim reimbursement:
b: the rate of reimbursement of those expenses:
c: the circumstances in which expenses may be reimbursed.
8: Section 17 amended (Certain enactments amended)
Repeal section 17(2)
9: New section 17A inserted (Repeals)
After section 17
17A: Repeals
The following provisions are repealed:
a: section 24 of the Adoption Act 1955:
b: section 128 of the Care of Children Act 2004:
c: section 228 of the Child Support Act 1991:
d: section 195 of the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989:
e: section 84 of the Domestic Violence Act 1995:
f: sections 4 and 5 of the Family Courts Amendment Act 2008:
g: section 164 of the Family Proceedings Act 1980:
h: section 36 of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976:
i: section 77 of the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988. OIC LI 2014/92 2014-03-31 Adoption Act 1955 Care of Children Act 2004 Child Support Act 1991 Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989 Domestic Violence Act 1995 Family Courts Amendment Act 2008 Family Proceedings Act 1980 Property (Relationships) Act 1976 Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988 Consequential amendments. Unless it is earlier brought into force on a date appointed by the Governor-General by Order in Council