Hi there,
The system is by no means perfect. I should qualify and say that my work experience is in the Victorian system. Some things DOCS can decide but ultimately the Magistrate makes decision as well which affects where children live. Many times DOCS don't want the children to go home but Magistrates make different decisions. DOCS will be trying to gather as much information as they can so they can make the best recommendation for the children at court - whichever way the evidence lies. The history of concerns also are taken into consideration.
With a lot of cases they legally have to work towards reunification so they put plans in place of things a parent needs to do to ensure that the children will be safe at home. Sometimes children are allowed to live at home with parents required to meet certain conditions and DOCS monitoring. Other times the children are removed and parents have the opportunity to make necessary improvements for the children.
If children are removed they firstly look at the other parent to see if they are suitable or not. If that parent is not suitable they look at other relatives next. The information you have on the children's father would be considered in terms of his suitability or not. They would also make some of their own enquires about his history.
If you need extra support from DOCS to help you out whether that be financial, paying for childcare, other expenses, assistance with children's behaviour or even respite let them know as in Victoria DOCS can often assist. Sometimes they don't talk about this upfront but there usually are things they can help out with.
It's a very big thing you are doing and the kids are very very lucky to have you.
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