Bilz & Breugelman

In the matter of *Bilz & Breugelman*, Austin J of the Family Court of Australia considered a dispute between parents concerning their child. The proceedings involved allegations of sexual abuse by the mother, which were subsequently withdrawn. The court was tasked with determining orders relating to parental responsibility, the child's living arrangements, and schooling.

The primary legal issues before the court were the application of the presumption of equal shared parental responsibility, the specific time the child would spend with each parent, and the determination of the child's schooling, particularly in light of the parents' differing religious beliefs. The court also considered the weight to be given to the child's views, given her young age and immaturity.

Applying the principles of best interests of the child, the court ordered equal shared parental responsibility. The child was to live with the mother and spend substantial and significant time with the father, with specific arrangements detailed for school terms and holidays. Regarding schooling, the court ordered the child's enrolment to change from a religious school to a public school near the mother's residence, and for the child to attend scripture classes at the new school, referencing established case law on educational decisions. The court also made orders restraining denigration of a parent and requiring parties to keep each other informed of contact details, and to complete a post-separation parenting program.