CORCORAN & CORCORAN

This matter concerned parenting orders for two children, [X] and [Y], born in 2003 and 2005 respectively. The father had allegedly engaged in a course of conduct intended to undermine the mother's parenting authority. While significant allegations of physical abuse by the mother were raised, the court found no concerns for 18 months, indicating no unacceptable risk to the children in her care. The parents had no communication and were in a highly conflicted relationship.

The court was required to determine the appropriate parenting arrangements for the children, specifically addressing issues of parental responsibility, living arrangements, and time spent with each parent, in the context of a high-conflict parental relationship. The court also had to consider the father's alleged attempts to undermine the mother's authority and the mother's alleged past abuse.

Judge Henderson ordered that the mother have sole parental responsibility for the long-term care, welfare, and development of the children, and that the children live with the mother. The court then detailed specific arrangements for the children to spend time with the father, including mid-week time during school terms and alternate weekends, with provisions for school holidays and specific public holidays. The orders also included detailed definitions for "school term" and "school holiday period," and stipulated communication protocols between the parents regarding the children's welfare, addresses, and contact details. Furthermore, the father was restrained from enrolling [X] in extra-curricular activities or interfering with her participation, and from arranging medical appointments for the children except in emergencies. The court also made orders regarding overseas travel arrangements for the children, including passport custody and notification requirements. Finally, the father was ordered to pay the mother's costs of the proceedings.