21 Jul 2013

Family Court changes supported by Fathers Union

2:25 pm on 21 July 2013

Several community groups have criticised proposals to reform the Family Court, but there is support for the move from a lobby group for fathers.

The changes include reduced use of lawyers in the Family Court and the establishment of a dispute resolution service, which couples will have to attend before they get to court.

The Fathers Union said it can see benefits in those changes, despite there being a fee of several hundred dollars for most of those using the dispute resolution service.

National president Allan Harvey said if people don't have to contribute themselves, they won't value the service as much.

Mr Harvey said the group believes removing delays and making the Family Court more approachable are big plusses.