Commonwealth Consolidated Regulations

FAMILY LAW RULES 2004 - RULE 4.09

        (1)         If a Medical Procedure Application is filed, evidence must be given to satisfy the court that the proposed medical procedure is in the best interests of the child.

        (2)         The evidence must include evidence from a medical, psychological or other relevant expert witness that establishes the following:

        (a)         the exact nature and purpose of the proposed medical procedure;

        (b)         the particular condition of the child for which the procedure is required;

        (c)         the likely long-term physical, social and psychological effects on the child:

        (i)         if the procedure is carried out; and

        (ii)         if the procedure is not carried out;

        (d)         the nature and degree of any risk to the child from the procedure;

        (e)         if alternative and less invasive treatment is available — the reason the procedure is recommended instead of the alternative treatments;

        (f)         that the procedure is necessary for the welfare of the child;

        (g)         if the child is capable of making an informed decision about the procedure — whether the child agrees to the procedure;

        (h)         if the child is incapable of making an informed decision about the procedure — that the child:

        (i)         is currently incapable of making an informed decision; and

        (ii)         is unlikely to develop sufficiently to be able to make an informed decision within the time in which the procedure should be carried out, or within the foreseeable future;

        (i)         whether the child’s parents or carer agree to the procedure.

        (3)         The evidence may be given:

        (a)         in the form of an affidavit; or

        (b)         with the court’s permission, orally.