When parents of a child under the age of 18 seperate, they each have parental responsibility for the child (subject to any court order). Both parents also have a duty to support the child financially. The Family Law Act 1975 focuses on the rights of children and the responsibilities that each parent has towards their children, as opposed to parental rights.
The Act sets out the rights, duties, powers and liabilities of spouses and children. It provides for enforcement of those rights and liabilities as well as the dissolution of marriage. It aims to ensure that children can enjoy a meaningful relationship with both of their parents, while being protected from harm.