Can my co-parent stop me from introducing our child to my new partner?

During your parenting time, decisions about who the child interacts with are generally yours to make. Introducing the child to a new partner, when done reasonably and at an appropriate stage, is typically within a parent's discretion during their own parenting time.

Your co-parent cannot unilaterally veto your new relationship or prohibit your child from meeting your partner. However, courts can impose restrictions if there is a documented safety concern — for example, if the new partner has a history of violence or poses a specific risk to the child.

Some separation agreements or court orders include a clause requiring that new partners not be introduced to children until the relationship reaches a certain point (for example, after a defined period of dating). If your order or agreement contains such a clause, you must follow it or apply to court to vary it.

Generally, courts encourage a common-sense, child-centred approach. Introducing a new partner gradually, giving the child time to adjust, and not putting the child in the middle of adult relationship dynamics are all considered good practice. Courts will not intervene absent a genuine concern for the child's safety or wellbeing.