Parenting arrangements after a FIFO marriage breakup

FIFO is a way of life for many West Australian families, but it can take its toll on relationships. Physical distance between couples, the added responsibility on one partner who often has to assume the role of a single parent and the difficulties that couples experience in adjusting between weeks on and weeks off can all put a strain on a relationship and eventually cause marriages to break up.

Reaching an agreement in FIFO families about where the children are to live after separation presents unique challenges that are not common in other families. In FIFO families, there is likely to be one parent who spends regular or significant amounts of time away from his or her children. Whilst the FIFO parent will want to maintain a close relationship with the children post separation, an unpredictable roster or rotational work arrangement may complicate parenting arrangements.

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