Unless otherwise advised in writing, the practice will assume that both parents have equal parental responsibility and authority to consent to medical treatment for their child.
If there are court orders, parenting plans, or legal restrictions that limit a parent’s authority, the practice must be provided with a current copy of the relevant documents.
The practice is not responsible for interpreting legal documents beyond what is clearly stated. If documents are unclear, the practice may seek clarification or request legal advice before proceeding.
Appointments and Attendance
Either parent may book appointments for the child unless restricted by court order.
The parent or guardian who brings the child to the appointment is responsible for:
Providing accurate and complete medical history
Consenting to treatment at that visit (where appropriate)
Managing the child during the appointment
The practice will not mediate disputes between parents regarding appointment scheduling, attendance, or treatment decisions.
Communication and Information Sharing
Clinical information may be shared with both parents who have parental responsibility, in accordance with Australian privacy legislation.
The practice will not withhold medical information from a parent with parental responsibility unless legally required to do so.
Requests for copies of medical records must be made in writing and will be processed in line with the practice’s Health Information and Privacy Policy.
The practice will not:
Act as a messenger between parents
Provide opinions or letters for use in family law disputes unless legally compelled (e.g. subpoena)
Billing and Fees
The parent or guardian who attends the appointment with the child is financially responsible for all fees incurred at that visit.
The practice does not split invoices or chase payment from the non-attending parent.
Any private arrangements between parents regarding cost-sharing are outside the practice’s responsibility.
Court Orders and Legal Disputes
The practice must be provided with up-to-date court orders if there are restrictions on:
Consent to treatment
Access to medical information
Attendance at appointments
In the event of a dispute between parents, the practice will continue care only where it is safe, appropriate, and legally permissible to do so.
The practice reserves the right to defer non-urgent treatment until disputes are resolved if there is uncertainty about consent.
Child Safety and Best Interests
The child’s health, safety, and wellbeing are the practice’s primary concern.
If staff have concerns about a child’s safety or welfare, mandatory reporting obligations may apply under relevant state or territory legislation.
Respectful Behaviour
All parents and guardians are expected to communicate respectfully with staff.
Abusive, aggressive, or threatening behaviour toward staff will not be tolerated and may result in termination of services.
