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Family

There are many different kinds of families. We are born into families and develop our identities within the family.

This section looks at what happens when families break down and how the courts make decisions about what is in young people’s best interests. It also looks at what happens if someone makes a report to the Department of Human Services about child abuse or neglect.

More information

Child abuse or neglect

Children’s Court

Family breakdown

Family dispute resolution (general information)

Violence & sexual assault

Your identity

How we can help

Victoria Legal Aid (VLA) has a Youth Legal Service that provides legal information and assistance to children, young people and parents.

Call VLA’s Legal Information Service for free information over the phone about the law and how we can help you with your legal problem. You can speak to a legal information officer in English or ask for an interpreter. Phone (03) 9269 0120 or 1800 677 402 (country callers), Monday to Friday from 8.45 am to 5.15 pm.

VLA’s free legal services include:

  • advice at VLA offices and other locations across Victoria
  • lawyers who are on ‘duty’ to help at many courts and tribunals, including the Children’s court
  • advice at many correctional facilities, remand and detention centres, including the Melbourne Juvenile Justice Centre, Parkville Youth Residential Centre and secure welfare facilities

For some matters we can provide you with a lawyer to help you run your case.

To find out more about any of our legal services see What we do.

Who else can help?

You can get free advice and support from:

  • Centre for Adolescent Health, phone: (03) 9345 5890
  • Kids Help Line 24 hrs, phone: 1800 551 800 (free call)
  • Reconnect – for mediation, support and referral. Phone: (03) 9611 2411 or 1800 800 531 (country callers)