How often do we hear of family members (non-parents) stepping up to care for children when for some reason one or both parents cannot.
Can they or indeed another non-parent such as an aunt or older sibling apply for a parenting order to define their authority? Most definitely-section 69 C (2) provides that any person concerned with the care, welfare and development of a child may apply for an order, which should include decision-making responsibility for things like medical treatment and education. If they have the capacity to contribute meaningfully they should receive power to make life easier.