Bindle and Seppett

In the matter of Bindle and Seppett, Bell J made orders concerning the care and responsibility for a child, L, born in February 2002. The dispute involved the arrangements for L's living situation, parental responsibility, and time spent with each parent.

The court was required to determine the primary residence of the child, the nature of parental responsibility, and the specific arrangements for time spent with each parent, including weekends, school holidays, and special days. Further issues included provisions for communication, exchange of information regarding the child's health and education, and undertakings from each parent regarding their conduct and substance use while caring for L. The court also considered the role of the Independent Children's Lawyer and the potential involvement of child safety departments.

Bell J ordered that L live with the father and that both parents share equal responsibility for L's long-term care, with each parent being responsible for L's day-to-day care while the child is with them. Specific arrangements were detailed for the mother's time with L, including one weekend per month and alternating school holidays, along with provisions for telephone communication and the exchange of essential information. The father was ordered to have a driver assist him when he did not have a license and to provide an undertaking regarding alcohol, drugs, and driving. The mother was also required to provide an undertaking concerning alcohol and drug consumption. Both parties were to undergo random drug and alcohol testing, and were prohibited from denigrating each other in the child's presence. The Independent Children's Lawyer was granted liberty to provide specified documents to child safety departments in New South Wales and Queensland.