Heading: inserted, on 1 July 2005, by section 3 of the Care of Children Amendment Act 2005 (2005 No 5).
(1) A child aged 16 or 17 who wishes to obtain consent for his or her de facto relationship must obtain the express written consent of each of his or her guardians to living together as a couple with the other party to the relationship.
(2) If the consent of a guardian cannot be obtained (whether because the guardian refuses to give consent, or cannot be found, or is unable to give consent as a result of incapacity), the child may apply to the court for consent.
(3) A Family Court Judge may make an order giving consent for the de facto relationship of a child aged 16 or 17.
(4) A consent given by a Family Court Judge under this section has the same effect as if it had been given by all of the child’s guardians.
Section 46A: inserted, on 1 July 2005, by section 3 of the Care of Children Amendment Act 2005 (2005 No 5).