The Best Co-Parenting Apps in Australia: What Separated Parents Should Know

Co-parenting after separation can be challenging—especially when communication breaks down or when every message risks becoming a source of conflict. Parenting apps have become an essential tool for separated parents across Australia, helping reduce stress, keep parenting arrangements on track, and create clear records of communication.

In this article, we break down the most commonly used co-parenting apps in Australia, what they offer, and how they can support families navigating family law matters.

Why Co-Parenting Apps Matter

For many separated parents, traditional communication (texts, emails, phone calls) becomes overwhelming or unproductive.

Parenting apps offer a centralised, structured way to manage:

• Messaging (with records you can’t delete)

• Parenting schedules and calendars

• Changeover requests and swaps

• Consent requests (school, travel, medical)

• Expense tracking and reimbursements

• Document sharing (medical notes, school reports)

• Information banks (allergies, clothing sizes, medication)

These tools help reduce misunderstandings and protect both parents from conflict. For families involved in family law proceedings, they can also provide accurate and reliable evidence of communication.

The Best Co-Parenting Apps in Australia

1. AppClose (Free)

AppClose is one of the most popular options because it is 100% free and still offers extensive features.

Key Features

• Secure messaging

• Shared calendars and scheduling

• Requests for changes to parenting arrangements

• Expense tracking with reimbursement requests

• Record-keeping that cannot be edited or deleted

• Ability to export message threads

Best For

Parents wanting a free but reliable tool with strong record-keeping.

Considerations

• No message tone-monitoring or AI filters

• Less polished interface than paid apps

2. MyFamilyWizard

MyFamilyWizard is widely recommended in high-conflict matters and is often the app preferred by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and legal practitioners and can be court ordered.

Key Features

• Clear, timestamped communication records

• Shared schedules designed around Australian school terms

• Tools for consent decisions (medical, education, travel)

• Easy export of all records

Best For

High-conflict parenting matters or cases where clear documentation is essential.

Considerations

• Subscription required and can be more expensive than other options

• More features than some parents need for low-conflict arrangements

3. 2Houses

2Houses offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed specifically for separated parents, with a strong focus on organisation and transparency.

Key Features

• Shared custody calendar

• Secure messaging

• Shared photo albums

• Expense tracking and budgeting tools

• Document storage (medical cards, school reports, court orders)

• Information bank with details on routines, instructions, and emergency contacts

Best For

Parents seeking a well-rounded, user-friendly co-parenting app with a focus on organisation and clarity.

Considerations

• Subscription required

• Records can be exported, but not as comprehensively as MyFamilyWizard or TalkingParents in high-conflict matters

4. TalkingParents

TalkingParents is a structured communication tool originally developed for the US but increasingly used in Australia.

Key Features

• Tamper-proof messaging

• Free plan available

• Call recordings for premium plans

• Shared calendars and file storage

• Comprehensive export options

Best For

Parents needing strong accountability and reliable communication records without subscribing to a full-featured platform.

Considerations

• Some features require paid plans

• Interface is less modern than other apps

Which Co-Parenting App Is Best?

For High-Conflict Situations:

OurFamilyWizard or TalkingParents

For Moderate Conflict:

AppClose
(free, structured, and excellent record-keeping)

For Organised, Cooperative Co-Parenting:

2Houses
(good for organisation, schedules, and shared expenses)

What Wallen Family Law Recommends

Every family is different. The right app depends on:

• The level of conflict

• The need for evidentiary records

• Whether you have court orders

• The level of organisation each parent requires

• How complex your parenting arrangements are

For most families involved in family law matters, we typically recommend AppClose or OurFamilyWizard, depending on the level of conflict.

If you’re unsure which app is best for your situation, we can guide you based on your parenting arrangements, communication patterns, and goals for your children.

Need Help Navigating Co-Parenting After Separation?

Clear communication is essential for children’s wellbeing—and the right tools can make a significant difference.

If you need guidance on parenting arrangements, court orders, or managing communication with your former partner, Wallen Family Law is here to help.
We offer warm, practical, and outcomes-focused advice to help your family move forward with clarity and confidence.

Contact Wallen Family Law for personalised guidance on your parenting arrangements.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Every family law matter is unique and requires specific legal guidance. Always seek professional legal advice for your specific situation.