Women and Separation (Booklet) - Relationships Australia

Making formal arrangementsDealing with institutions‘When seeking assistance from government agencies, I always took my knittingand my lunch.’(L.C., aged 45, six years after separation)Remember that all institutions are acting according to legislation, nottrying to make things difficult for you.• Be courteous and respectful with the employees of institutions youdeal with – this often results in helpful responses.• Ask questions if you don't understand – understanding newinformation is especially difficult if you’re under stress.• Avoid blame or recriminations either towards your former partneror 'the system'.• If the service is unsatisfactory, speak to a supervisor or use thecustomer complaints procedure.• Gather all relevant information before you act or make decisions.• Seek advice from the Family Relationships Advice Line(1800 050 321) or your lawyer.• Talk about family dispute resolution with Relationships Australia(1300 364 277) or your lawyer.RememberThe more you can agree on withyour former partner, the more youwill minimise your engagementwith 'the system'. However, donot jeopardise your personalsafety or that of your children,or be pressured into making anagreement that you think isunfair.33