Losing contact with your grandchildren is hard, especially when you’ve helped raise them. The missed birthdays and school pick-ups that suddenly stop add up fast. Here’s the reality: grandparents rights Australia aren’t automatic. That doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Under the Family Law Act 1975, grandparents can apply for parenting orders through the Federal Circuit and Family Court, and acting sooner rather than later usually helps.
Call Ferrall & Co. Lawyers on (07) 5491 2159 for a free legal assessment of your grandparents rights case.
How Ferrall & Co. Supports Grandparents Across Caloundra & the Sunshine Coast
Grandparents matter to kids, and the law knows it. Around two in five grandparents help care for grandchildren under 13. When access breaks down, Ferrall & Co. works with grandparents and other extended family on mediation and court applications to keep those relationships going.
- Family lawyers acting for Caloundra and Queensland families across the full range of family law matters
- Accredited mediators who aim to sort things out efficiently and with care
- Help for grandparents applying for parenting orders and consent orders
- Plain-English guidance on Family Law Act applications, so you know what to expect before you file
- A mediation-first approach that keeps conflict and costs down while putting the child first
- Court representation if mediation doesn't settle things
- Help with urgent applications where a child's safety is at risk
Our Legal Services for Grandparents Rights Australia
Parenting Orders for Contact and Care
A parenting order sets out who a child lives with, who they spend time with, and who makes the big decisions regarding their long-term welfare.
Family Dispute Resolution and Mediation
In most cases you’ll need to try mediation through Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) before applying for court orders. We guide you through the process.
Emergency and Urgent Applications
Sometimes you can’t wait. We provide swift legal action where the safety or immediate wellbeing of your grandchild is at risk.
How the Legal Process Works
A clear pathway to resolving your family matters.
Legal Assessment and Strategy
We review your family history and current situation to build a legal strategy tailored to the child’s best interests.
Family Dispute Resolution
We prioritise mediation to reach a mutual agreement, saving you the stress and cost of prolonged court battles.
Court Application if Needed
If mediation doesn’t resolve the matter, we provide expert representation in Court to secure necessary parenting orders.
What Our Grandparent Clients Say
Rowena and her team were absolutely amazing and went above and beyond for me and my daughter. They sorted out my family matter in a very timely manner and very well priced. I would not go past this team if you’re looking for someone that fights for you. She let me have a voice when I really needed it. -K.M.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grandparents Rights
No, they don’t have automatic rights. However, the law recognises the right of children to maintain relationships with people significant to their care and development, including grandparents.
Yes, it’s possible. If it is in the best interests of the child, grandparents can apply for parenting orders that grant them parental responsibility or the right for the child to live with them.
In most cases you’ll need to try family dispute resolution (mediation) first. If that fails or isn’t appropriate due to urgency or safety, then an application to the court can be made.
It depends on your situation. Mediation can settle matters in weeks, while contested court proceedings can take many months or longer. We aim for the most efficient resolution possible.
Protect Your Grandparent Rights Today
The longer contact is on hold, the harder it can be on everyone. Contact Ferrall & Co. Lawyers today for expert local assistance.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This content provides general information only. It is not legal advice.