What Happens at Your First Court Event in the FCFCOA? (Sydney, Parramatta & Wollongong)

If your family law matter has been filed in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA), your first court event will usually take place at either the Sydney, Parramatta, or Wollongong Registry depending on where you live.

Although many people feel anxious about it, the first court date is not a trial and is not designed to determine long-term outcomes. It is mostly procedural, and with the right preparation, it can be a calm and structured experience.

What the First Court Event Is Not

The first event is not where:

• parenting disputes are permanently resolved

• property division is finalised

• your evidence is tested

• witnesses are called

• your matter “goes to trial”

It is an administrative step to help the Court understand your matter and set the pathway forward.

What the Court Reviews

Whether your matter is listed in Sydney, Parramatta or Wollongong, the Court will review:

• Your Initiating Application or Response

• Affidavits

• Notice of Child Abuse, Family Violence or Risk (if parenting)

• Financial Statement (if property)

• Proposed interim orders

• Compliance with pre-action procedures

• Any urgent issues

• Requests for subpoenas

• Whether a Child Impact Report or Family Report is needed

• Whether a Family Dispute Resolution Conference (for parenting matters) or Conciliation Conference (for property matters) is suitable

What Usually Happens on the Day

At the first event:

• A Judicial Registrar presides before the Court.

• Your lawyer will speak on your behalf if you are legally represented.

• The Court identifies the key issues.

• Directions are made for evidence, mediation or reports.

• Interim arrangements may be made if required for safety, stability or practical reasons.

• The Court Event normally occurs via VideoConference (and not in person)

You Leave With a Roadmap

By the end of your first court event, you will have a clear understanding of:

• What happens next

• Deadlines you must meet

• Whether a Child Impact Report or valuations are needed

• The likely timing of any dispute resolution or conciliation conference

• When your interim hearing (if any) will occur

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.