(1) The overarching purpose of thefamily law practice and procedure provisions is to facilitate the justresolution of disputes:
(a) in a way that ensures the safety of families andchildren;and
(b) in relation toproceedings underthis Act in which the bestinterests of achild are the paramount consideration--in a way that promotesthe bestinterests of thechild; and
(c) according to law; and
(d) as quickly, inexpensively and efficiently as possible.
Note: Forfamily law practice and procedure provisions, seesubsection (4).
(2) Without limitingsubsection (1), the overarchingpurpose includes the following objectives in relation toproceedings underthis Act:
(a) the just determination of all suchproceedings;
(b) the efficient use of the judicial and administrativeresources available for the purposes ofcourts exercising jurisdiction in suchproceedings;
(c) the efficient disposal of the overall caseload ofcourtsexercising jurisdiction in suchproceedings;
(d) the disposal of all suchproceedings in a timely manner;
(e) the resolution of disputes at a cost that is proportionateto the importance and complexity of the matters in dispute.
(3) Thefamily law practice and procedure provisions must beinterpreted and applied, and any power conferred or duty imposed by them(including the power to makeapplicable Rules of Court) must be exercised orcarried out, in the way that best promotes the overarching purpose.
(4) Thefamily law practice and procedure provisionsare thefollowing, so far as they apply in relation toproceedings underthis Act:
(a) theapplicable Rules of Court;
(b) any other provisionmade by or underthis Act, or any otherAct, with respect to the practice and procedure of theFederal Circuit and Family Court of Australia or any othercourt.
