The Ministry of Justice is undertaking a review of the Family Court system to make it more “sustainable, efficient, cost-effective and responsive to those vulnerable adults and children who n
What separating parents need when making care arrangements for their children
This Families Commission issues paper discusses the importance of promoting and investing in cooperative parenting and looks at options for change that would provide more equity, flexibility and information for separating parents.
In 2008, Colmar Brunton was commissioned by the Families Commission to undertake research that looks at the experiences of separated parents and the financial and care arrangements for their children. This research was intended to inform further work planned by the Families Commission on this topic and was not intended to be published as a stand-alone report.
Between 2003 and 2004, one in 10 New Zealanders changed their family type. Understanding how and why families change or remain stable is important because of the impact on our government’s policies and family services. This report analyses one year of statistical family changes.
The experiences of a group of non-resident fathers
This study, funded by the Families Commission Innovative Practice Fund, analysed discussions with 20 non-resident fathers to find strategies for supporting fathers through the process of separation.
New Zealand couples who are separating may avoid contested care of children if they can negotiate and maintain parenting arrangements themselves. This report shows how some couples have set aside their personal and relationship issues and put their kids first.
New Zealand data collections, language and complex parenting
This paper explores the issues surrounding data collection and the diversity of family types, with particular emphasis on family connections across households.
