ALSTEEN & ALSTEEN

This matter concerned an interim application in family law proceedings before Judge Morley. The dispute involved parenting arrangements for three children, X, Y, and Z, born in 2010, 2012, and 2015 respectively. The court was required to determine the specific times the father would spend with the children, as well as establish certain behavioural and communication protocols between the parents.

The court's primary task was to establish interim parenting orders that addressed the children's time with each parent and to implement measures aimed at improving the co-parenting relationship. This involved vacating previous consent orders and substituting them with a detailed schedule for the father's time with the children, encompassing regular weekend contact, holiday periods, and specific dates such as birthdays and Christmas. Additionally, the court considered the need for parental education, restrictions on parental behaviour towards the children and each other, and the method of communication between the parents.

In its reasoning, the court applied principles of family law concerning the best interests of the child, as evidenced by the detailed and phased-in schedule for the father's time with the children, which gradually increased over time. The court also imposed specific orders restraining both parents from denigrating each other, using abusive language, or leaving the children unsupervised, reflecting a focus on the children's emotional well-being and safety. The requirement for both parents to complete parenting courses, such as "Circle of Security" and "Bringing Up Great Kids," underscored the court's intention to foster improved parenting skills and co-parenting capacity. Furthermore, the court mandated specific changeover procedures and restricted communication to email to minimise conflict. The court also granted leave for the Independent Children's Lawyer to relist the matter concerning therapy for the children.