The Lighthouse Project

Following the introduction of the Family Law Amendment (Risk Screening Protections) Bill 2020 in late August 2020, The Family Court of Australia and the Federal Circuit Court of Australia are welcoming the introduction of the new family-violence and risk screening initiating, the Lighthouse Project.

The Lighthouse Project aims to assist individuals and families whom are experiencing family violence or other safety concerns navigate through the family law system. This is a welcome initiative amongst our Family Law Team especially given the significance of the issue of family violence in our community.

Key Features of The Lighthouse Project: When a party files an Application or Response for parenting orders only, the parties will be asked to complete a questionnaire via Family DOORS Triage, a private and confidential online platform. Questionnaires received by the Family DOORS Triage will be used for risk screening, referral of parties to health support and the identification of case management strategies.

The benefit of the The Lighthouse Project is that it will ensure that risk of family violence and other safety concerns are at the forefront of parenting matters, ensuring that not only are parties adequately supported but also that risks are addressed appropriately and in a timely manner. The Lighthouse Project is set to launch in late 2020 and initially will be piloted in the Adelaide, Brisbane and Parramatta Registries with the aim of a national roll out.

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If you require any assistance including assistance with your family law matter, including the breakdown of your relationship, parenting and property disputes or you are experiencing family violence, please do not hesitate to contact our Family Law Team at law@vrtlawyers.com.au or call 02 9264 7244.

If you or someone you know is impacted by family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000. Please note, for those experiencing family violence in Victoria, leaving for your safety is perfectly acceptable and support services remain available. You can ring Safe Steps 24/7 on 0399289600.