Culpin and Trouton

This matter concerned parenting orders for the children [Z], [Y], and [X]. The dispute involved the father and mother of the children, with the court being Judge Harman. The proceedings were brought before the court for the determination of parenting arrangements and related matters.

The court was required to determine several legal issues, including the living arrangements for the youngest child, [Z], and the time [Z] would spend with her father. Additionally, the court needed to consider the appointment of an Independent Children's Lawyer and the preparation of a Family Consultant's report. The parties were also directed to engage in family counselling and family dispute resolution.

The court's reasoning and the legal principles applied are reflected in the orders made. By consent, the parties agreed to Terms of Settlement, which were incorporated into the court's orders. These terms established equal shared parental responsibility for all three children. The orders specified that [Y] and [X] would live with the father, while [Z] would live with her mother, pending further order. Specific arrangements were made for [Z]'s time with her father, including alternate weekends and time during intervening weeks. The court also appointed an Independent Children's Lawyer pursuant to s.68L of the *Family Law Act 1975* due to concerns regarding drug and alcohol abuse allegations, family violence, and the tender years of the children, as well as the maturity of the elder children. A Family Consultant's report was ordered under s.62G to assess various aspects of the children's welfare and relationships with their parents. The parties were directed to attend family counselling and family dispute resolution, with specific timelines and obligations outlined. The court also included particulars of obligations and consequences of contravention of the orders, as set out in a Fact Sheet. The matter was adjourned for further mention and directions.