Family Law Pathways Networks are an initiative of the Australian Government Attorney-General’s Department.

Each Family Law Pathways Network seeks to meet the challenge of developing strong relationships between all members of the broader family law system. These include family relationship service providers, family courts, legal services, private legal practitioners, the Child Support Agency, Centrelink, and other related community-based organisations such as family violence services, Indigenous services,  and men’s and women’s behaviour change groups.

A primary objective is to break down some of the barriers in the family law system and to do what is necessary to achieve greater integration in order to make it easier for families caught up in disputes arising from separation to get timely and appropriate assistance.

The common objectives are:

• to develop an integrated family law system that makes sense to all – be they service provider or client
• to improve ways of working together to assist families to manage separation in ways that minimise conflict – particularly the impact it has on children, and
• to establish and maintain links between the various service providers such that information, training and referrals can be meaningfully shared and exchanged.

There are three key themes for Vic Family Law Pathways Network  2009-2010:

• Building a shared community of practice
• Building the evidence base for cooperative working relationships
• Building and strengthening professional relationships.

The Network organises opportunities to build closer relationships through networking and training events, works closely with the Family Law Courts and professional bodies and provides support for initiatives at a  local level.

If you work within the Family Law sector we encourage your involvement and participation.

NetworkOnAStick

NetworkOnAStick was developed to meet the needs of many practitioners in the sector for a directory of services covering Victoria where collected together, one could see:

• The range of services offered
• A brief overview of each service type and most importantly,
• Where you could find them in Victoria & how to contact them.

Practitioners wanted the directory to be comprehensive, compact, portable and easily maintained. It was a tall order but according to all early adopters, the result has surpassed expectations.

The stick assists members to have a shared understanding of others’ roles in the family law system and an increased awareness of products and services available. It assists members to  actively refer clients where appropriate and  have an increased focus on the best interests of the child during family separation.

The accuracy of the content is now with members. During 2009-2010, there will be  updated releases. Any member may suggest modifications. Post 2010, if the directory meets expectations, we are able to extend its life further.

Further information from the Vic Family Pathways Network (Melbourne) can be obtained by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it