Commentary

The importance of listening to children’s voices in family law: A framework for practice

AUTHORS

name here
Jaclyn Chalmers
1 Master's Degree, Student * ORCID logo

name here
Jennifer Cartmel
1 PhD, Associate Professor ORCID logo

AFFILIATIONS

1 School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Meadowbrook, Qld 4131, Australia

ACCEPTED: 25 September 2025


Early abstract

This commentary explores the critical importance of listening to children’s voices within the family law context and proposes a framework for practice, designed to enhance children’s participation in decisions that affect their lives. Drawing on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and Lundy’s model of participation, the framework identifies key principles and practices for professionals working with children and families. It highlights how child-centred approaches can improve decision-making processes, strengthen children’s rights and support their wellbeing. This commentary argues that incorporating meaningful participation within family law requires systemic change, practitioner training and safeguards to ensure children’s voices are heard. 
Keywords: child-centred practice, children’s participation, children’s rights, family law, Lundy’s model.