Contact decisions
What is a contact decision?
A contact decision determines:
- Who an adult can or cannot have contact and/or visits with
- The type of contact (e.g. phone, in-person or supervised)
- The conditions under which contact occurs.
These decisions are made to protect the adult particularly in situations where contact may cause harm, distress or exploitation.
When is a contact decision needed?
Contact decisions are only made when there is no less restrictive way to ensure an adult’s safety and wellbeing. For example:
- A family member is visiting unannounced, causing distress
- A person in the adult’s network is isolating them from others they wish to see
- There are risks of abuse, neglect or exploitation.
Contact decisions are not used to manage family conflicts, and they don’t replace police involvement in cases of abuse or danger.
Who makes contact decisions?
Guardians make contact decisions and act under the authority of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) and follow the Structured Decision-Making Framework and the General Principles of the Guardianship and Administration Act 2000. These principles respect the adult’s rights, will and preferences.
What factors are considered when making a contact decision?
We consider a range of factors, including:
- The adult’s views and wishes, where they can be expressed
- The adult’s understanding of potential risks
- The nature of the relationship, including whether it is supportive or harmful
- Any legal rulings, such as Domestic Violence Orders, which cannot be overridden.
If the adult cannot communicate their wishes, guardians rely on past behaviours, opinions shared with others, or previously expressed preferences.
What information should I provide when requesting a contact decision?
To help us make a contact decision, you should provide:
- Details of the decision you’re seeking (e.g. who has contact and/or visits, limiting or stopping contact)
- Reasons for your request, including any risks if no decision is made
- Information about the relationship, including any history of abuse or harm.
Providing this information promptly helps ensure an efficient decision-making process.
How long does it take to make a contact decision?
There’s no standard timeframe, as each situation is unique. We prioritise urgent cases where an adult’s safety is at risk. While we aim to make decisions as quickly as possible, we must carefully consider all relevant information and consult with necessary parties.
Can a guardian enforce a contact decision?
No, guardians are decision-makers, not enforcers. If we make a decision to limit or stop contact, it’s the responsibility of your support network or service provider to implement the decision. We cannot force someone to supervise contact or prevent contact.
What if the adult changes their mind about contact?
If you decide you no longer wish to see or speak to someone after a contact decision has been made, your choice will be respected. We will not force contact against your will.