Annual report [1997-98] - Family Court of Australia

The Family Court of Australia – annual report 1997-98
You have a right to:
■ fair and helpful assistance
■ have your privacy respected and information about you kept confidential where the
law requires
■ a fair and just hearing in a safe environment
■ timely decisions by the Court
■ restricted access to information on the file held by the Court in relation to your
proceedings
In some circumstances, children may be entitled to separate representation.
You are responsible for:
■ complying with any orders, decrees and directions of the Court
■ full and frank disclosure of information
■ co-operating with any requests or directions of Court sta ff
■ behaving courteously and peaceably in the Court precincts.
Suggestions and complaints
If you are happy with the service provided to you, please let us know. AService
Improvements Box has been placed in an accessible location in each registr y. If you are
unhappy with the service provided please raise your concern with the person with whom
you have been dealing. If that person cannot satisfy your concern they will refer it quickly
to someone who can help you and will advise you accordingly. Written complaints may be
made to the Chief Executive Officer, GPO Box 9991, Canberra ACT2601.
If you need more information …
Further information about your rights and responsibilities and our services is contained in
a number of brochures available free from all registries of the Court.
■ Application forms for commencement of proceedings are available from the Court’s
registries and internet site. Self-help kits covering divorce, consent orders, parenting
plans and preparing for a hearing can be obtained by contacting your nearest registr y.
■ Information sessions are available in each registry if you need more detailed information.
■ Registries can also advise upon the availability of interpreter services.
■ The Court maintains an after-hours recorded message service to handle eme rgencies;
the number is in your local telephone director y.
■ Fees may be payable for some Court proceedings, subject to your financial position.
You should contact your nearest Court registry to find out whether you will be
required to pay a fee.
■ Our postal addresses are shown at the end of this Charter*.
■ Our internet site is at http://www.familycourt.gov.au.
Enquiries concerning the provision of legal services should be made to the law society in
your State or Territor y. Information about the availability of legal aid may be obtained from
the Legal Aid Commission in your State or Territor y.
Your views, and review of this Charter
Your views about us are important . We are committed to continuing to improve our
services. This Charter was developed in consultation with clients, community and
professional groups and people in the Court. It will be reviewed annuall y.
*Addresses have been omitted from this appendix . They are listed in Part One of this Report.
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