A new review will assess the effectiveness of Australia’s Family Court system.

The Australian government has initiated a review of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia Act 2021, focusing on the court system’s effectiveness in handling family law and general federal law cases. 

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has announced that Linda Dessau, former Governor of Victoria and long-serving Judge of the Family Court, alongside Professor Helen Rhoades, an Honorary Professorial Fellow at Melbourne Law School, will spearhead the inquiry.

This review, mandated by section 284 of the Act, will evaluate the impact of structural reforms implemented within the Family Court of Australia and the Federal Circuit Court. 

The inquiry will scrutinise the effectiveness of recent changes, including the consolidation of entry points for federal family law matters and the specialisation of judicial officers. 

The review should also identify any unintended consequences stemming from the current legislation and explore potential improvements, whether through legislative amendments or other means.

Dessau and Rhoades, both distinguished figures in legal circles, are expected to bring their extensive experience and expertise to the review. 

The terms of reference for the review have been made available on the Attorney-General’s Department website, inviting public and stakeholder input.

As the review progresses, it will address specific areas of concern, such as the allocation of original and appellate jurisdiction in family law matters and the implications of dual appointments. 

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