A Family Consultant is an appointed psychologist and/or social worker who specialises in children and family issues.
A meeting with a Family Consultant may be ordered by the Court under the Family Law Act after proceedings have been issued in children cases. The Court may also order that your child attend a meeting with a Family Consultant.
The role of the Family Consultant is set out in section 11A of the Family Law Act and includes:
1. assisting and advising those involved in the proceedings;
2. assisting and advising the Court, and giving evidence in relation to the proceedings;
3. helping resolve disputes that are the subject of the proceedings;
4. reporting to the Court;
5. advising the Court about appropriate family counsellors, family dispute resolution practitioners and courses, programs and services to which the Court can refer the parties to the proceedings.
The Court may also order that there be a report prepared by a Family Consultant.
You must be mindful that your discussion with the Family Consultant is not confidential and may be used in Court.
If you are ordered by the Court to attend a meeting with a Family Consultant you must attend. If you fail to attend the Family Consultant is obliged to report to the Court of such failure under the Family Law Act.