Parenting after separation is never easy. Emotions run high, routines shift, and the challenges of daily life suddenly require twice the coordination. But amidst all of this, one thing remains clear: children thrive when both parents work together to prioritise structure, communication, and consistency.
In Australian Family Law, the best interests of the child come first. That means helping your child maintain strong and meaningful relationships with both parents and managing co-parenting in a way that reduces conflict and confusion.
One helpful way to support co-parenting is to leverage technology. In today’s busy world, co-parenting apps have become invaluable tools for separated families. These apps are specifically designed to reduce stress and misunderstandings by helping parents communicate more clearly, stay organised, and stick to shared routines.
From managing school drop-offs and extracurricular activities to splitting expenses and sharing updates about the kids, co-parenting apps can simplify the day-to-day logistics. Most importantly, they help create a more stable and predictable environment for children, which is exactly what they need to thrive after separation.
Here are some of the top co-parenting apps used by families in Australia:
AppClose
AppClose is a free, all-in-one co-parenting app packed with features to make family life easier after separation. It includes multifunctional calendars, secure messaging, and audio and video calling. One of its standout features is the built-in payment solution, allowing you to send, request, and track payments for shared expenses like school fees or kids’ activities. You can even coordinate pet-related care and expenses if you’re sharing custody of a family pet.
AppClose also recently introduced call recording and transcript generation, which can be helpful for record-keeping. All records are exportable and can be used for personal organisation or legal purposes.
Price: Free
Cozi
Cozi is a versatile family organiser that’s great for all families, not just those who are separated. It features a colour-coded calendar that tracks everyone’s schedules in one easy view, keeping both parents and kids in the loop with notifications.
The app also includes to-do lists (perfect for managing chores or school tasks), a meal planner, and a shared shopping list to help reduce the mental load on busy parents.
Price: Free
OurFamilyWizard
OurFamilyWizard is designed for co-parents to manage parenting schedules, expenses, and communication. It includes a secure calendar, messaging system, and tools to track shared costs. A standout feature is its AI-powered message editor, which flags language that may escalate conflict and suggests more neutral, productive alternatives. It’s a helpful way to keep communication respectful and focused on the kids.
Price: from $199/year to $399/year (premium)
2houses
2houses offers a user-friendly platform for managing co-parenting arrangements. It includes a shared calendar, simple management of shared expenses, and a digital journal where you can share updates, photos, and videos.
Price: $169.99/year ($14.17/month)
Talking Parents
Talking Parents offers a complete solution for co-parents with organised and documented interactions all in one place. It offers secure messaging, a shared calendar, and audio/video calling that keeps phone numbers private. Records cannot be altered, and you can request electronically certified PDF records – ideal for lawyers, courts, or therapists.
Price: from $12/month (standard) or $27/month (premium)
Which app is right for you?
Every family is different. The best co-parenting app for you will depend on your needs, whether that’s improving communication, managing money, or creating more structure for your children.
If you’re currently navigating separation and would like legal advice about your parenting arrangements, property division or ongoing communication with your ex, our team is here to support you.
Disclaimer: The content presented in this article is offered for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice or a substitute for professional guidance. If you have questions or require legal assistance, we strongly recommend consulting with a Solicitor to address your individual circumstances.