Evaluation of the family law reforms

Changes to the family law system

Changes to the family law system have been introduced, with the aim of strengthening family relationships and changing the way separation is managed.

Parents are being encouraged to work together to solve their problems outside of court where possible, and to focus on the best interests of their children.

To support the reformed family law system, core services are being established and expanded across Australia. These services aim to help families deal cooperatively and practically with relationship challenges and separations.

Brochure for the evaluation of the family law reforms (PDF 260K)

For more information about the reforms, visit the website of the Attorney-General's Department.

Evaluating the reforms

The Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) is undertaking an evaluation of the family law reforms on behalf of the Attorney-General's Department and the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs and is being guided by the Institute's Evaluation Framework.

The research program will build on baseline research conducted for the evaluation by AIFS, and on broader research conducted by a range of organisations, including AIFS.

There are three key components to the research program:

• the Legislation and Courts Project;
• the Service Provision Project; and
• the Families Project.

Each of these components involves a series of studies which will combine to develop a composite picture based on multiple perspectives.