Charles and Charles

In *Charles and Charles*, Cronin J made orders concerning the parenting arrangements and financial matters for the parties' two children, S and N. The dispute involved the division of responsibilities for major long-term decisions regarding the children, the communication protocols between the parents, and the division of property, including a home and various financial assets.

The court was required to determine how decisions about major long-term issues affecting the children would be made, the method of consultation between the parents on these issues, and the ultimate decision-making authority in the event of disagreement. Additionally, the court had to establish specific parenting time arrangements for the children, including during school holidays and special occasions, and to address the financial settlement between the parties, including the payment of a significant sum, the transfer of property interests, and the division of superannuation.

Cronin J ordered that the parents share responsibility for major long-term decisions concerning the children, requiring joint decision-making and consultation via letter. In the event of unresolved issues after consultation and counselling, the wife was granted the final decision-making power. The court also issued injunctions restraining the husband from harassing the wife and specified limited circumstances for communication and contact. Detailed orders were made regarding the children's living arrangements, including alternate week parenting, holiday time, and specific arrangements for birthdays and Father's Day. Financially, the husband was ordered to pay the wife a substantial sum and transfer his interest in certain assets, while the wife was to transfer her interest in the family home. Provisions were made for the sale of the home in default of payment, and a specific superannuation splitting order was made in favour of the wife.