QLD Does Son's Girlfriend Have Guardianship?

[Debbi Heaton]

Hi,

My son is 17 years old (he turns 18 on 9/2/2017) and lives in a de facto relationship with his girlfriend since October 2015.

My question is - Does this mean his girlfriend is has legal guardianship?

 

[Victoria S]

It depends why you are asking. What is the issue.

The meaning of de facto in the context of young people is different depending on the reason for requiring the classification. For example a young person who is in a de facto relationship may be considered independent for the purposes of obtaining some government pensions and allowances.

In this case, a de facto relationship must have continued for a duration of 12 months, to be valid except in special circumstances where 6 months duration is accepted.

I don't believe she would be considered his guardian for most purposes.