New Guidelines for Independent Children’s Lawyers 2024 launched on 29 October at National ICL Conference, Perth
New Guidelines for Independent Children’s Lawyers (ICLs) 2024 were officially launched on 29 October 2024 at the National ICL Conference in Perth, WA. Endorsed by the Chief Justice (Division 1) and Chief Judge (Division 2) of the FCFCOA and the Chief Judge of the Family Court of Western Australia, these updated guidelines aim to provide ICLs with a comprehensive framework for their critical role.
The Guidelines developed by the Legal Aid Commissions of the Australian states and territories were last reviewed in 2013. Key updates to the Guidelines include:
- Alignment with the Family Law Amendment Act 2023: The guidelines have been revised to reflect the latest legislative changes.
- Increased guidance for ICLs on working with vulnerable children, recognising the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and representing children living with disability;
- A plain language rewrite to clarify the role and its obligations for ICLs and parties;
- Improved accessibility: easier navigation including links to relevant resources throughout.
Click here to access the new Guidelines. We encourage all ICLs to familiarise themselves with the new guidelines and to incorporate them into their practice.