Arunya and Dobson (No 2)

This matter concerned orders made by consent between Ms Arunya and Mr Dobson regarding their three children, L, A, and P. The dispute centred on arrangements for parental responsibility, living arrangements, and time spent between the children and each parent. The decision was made by Faulks DCJ.

The court was required to determine the terms of consent orders that would govern the children's upbringing. Specifically, the court needed to establish arrangements for equal shared parental responsibility, the children's primary residence, the father's time with the children, and provisions concerning parental conduct, communication, and the children's cultural connection.

The court made orders by consent, reflecting the agreement of the parties. These orders established equal shared parental responsibility for the children, with the children to live with their mother. The father was granted time with the children on every second weekend, and one half of each school holiday period, with detailed provisions outlining the commencement and termination of these periods. The orders also included specific stipulations regarding parental conduct, such as abstaining from alcohol or illicit drugs while the children are in their care, and detailed communication protocols, including telephone contact and the sharing of information regarding the children's schooling and health. Furthermore, the orders mandated that both parents ensure the children maintain a connection with their Aboriginal culture.