UNDER 16
16 <17 18+ any age

Who should provide for my needs?

Until you are 16 your parent or ‘guardian’, must provide for your needs. If they do not ensure that you have adequate food, clothing, housing and education they may be committing a criminal offence.

(s10A Summary Offences Act 1989; s152 Crimes Act 1961)

Do I have to live with my parents?

If you want to live with someone other than your parents while you are under 16 you can do so if your parents agree to it. They are still financially responsible for you though. If your parents will not agree to you living away from them and the reason you want to leave is because you are suffering physical, emotional or sexual abuse at home then you
should contact your local Child, Youth and Family Services who must take action. If your parents are neglecting you or you have serious problems in your relationship with your parents, and these things are seriously affecting your health, you should also ask Child Youth and Family Services to take action.

If your parents have separated, there might be court orders deciding your day-to-day care (i.e.. where you should live and who with). In this case your parent(s) may apply to the Family Court to have the orders changed or ‘varied’, if you decide you want to change where you are living. If your parents won’t apply to the court for this then you can apply (if the Court agrees) for an order changing the arrangements. The Court will consider what is in your best interests.
(ss14,15 Children Young Persons and their Families Act 1989; ss47 to 57 Care of Children Act 2004)