The Catholic Weekly

The
Catholic Weekly
Online

Sydney
21 November 2004

Aust group at congress

Working poor numbers on the rise: bishop

Help the needy to happy Christmas

English translation of Mass is ‘top priority’

First priest remembered as friars mark jubilee

‘Separation centre’ trials

Solo parent ministry

Strong new voice in abortion debate

Youth crusader warns on child sex trafficking

Tick for trials

Letters

‘Separation centre’ trials

By Sandra Murphy

CATHOLIC Welfare Australia has welcomed a Federal Government discussion paper that recommends compelling couples to visit a government “separation centre” for counselling in preparation for their legal separation.
The trial of 15 such relationship centres is expected to begin next year.

The executive director of Catholic Welfare Australia, Frank Quinlan, said compulsory attendance for couples seeking access to the Family Court would contribute to debate on the future of the family law system.

“ There are two strong themes that seem to underpin this discussion paper that reflect the experience of our agencies,” he said.

“ The first is that the breakdown of the family unit has ramifications far beyond legal issues and should not be treated as simply a legal problem.”

“ The second is that family breakdown has an impact on the lives of not only the couple involved but also the children, the grandparents and the extended family network, all of whom require support.”

Centrelink and child support agencies will refer separating couples to the centres as part of a push to encourage people facing relationship difficulties to avoid litigation.

Mr Ruddock confirmed lawyers would not be allowed to participate in the process, and counsellors at the family relationship centres would instead help couples develop a “parenting plan”.