28/06/2011
The Federal Minister for Families, Housing and Community Services, Jenny Macklin, has released a report on a four year study of Australian children. Among the results of the study, based on analysis of 10,000 Australian families, researchers found that children aged from 3 to 19 months perform better academically and socially when surrounded by supportive relationships with family and friends - and crucial among these are grandparents.
The Minister told media that "grandparents provide a strong support base for families by lending a hand with day-to-day family life and influencing their grandchildren's development. This new study demonstrates just what a critical role grandparents play in the development of children''.
Spending time with grandchildren, reading to them, cooking together and taking them shopping were simple interactions which made the difference, she said.
Grandparents have rights under the Family Law Act in respect of their relationships with their grandchildren. Because the laws are based upon the best interests of the child, courts will often recognise and protect the important bond between grandparents and grandchildren.
For more information about your rights as a grandparent, contact Lucy Doherty, Tara Witham or Justin Serong at Maddens Lawyers, using our toll-free number, 1800 815 228.