This report adds to what is known about the behaviour and motivations of separated parents in Australia, drawing on three independent data sets.

The data sets are: a longitudinal study of parents conducted from 2003 to 2006, 'Caring for Children After Parental Separation' (CFCAS); focus groups in 2005 with professionals working in the wider family law system, regarding post-separation parenting disputes; and interviews with parents who had significant ongoing conflicts and who had volunteered to participate in child-focused mediation. These parent interviews were conducted in early 2006 just prior to the introduction of the family law reforms.

The report concludes with overall findings in light of the evaluation of the 2006 family law reforms.