Dixon & Dixon

In the matter of *Dixon & Dixon*, heard by Hannam J, the dispute concerned parenting arrangements for the child of the relationship, B. The orders made indicate that the mother and father sought to resolve issues relating to B's living arrangements, time spent with each parent, and the nature of their parental responsibility.

The court was required to determine the most appropriate orders for B's upbringing, specifically addressing issues of equal shared parental responsibility, where the child would live, and the extent of time B would spend with each parent. Furthermore, the court needed to consider the need for therapeutic intervention to address family relationships, including the relationship between B and her sibling C, and to make orders regarding contact with C.

Hannam J made orders reflecting a proposed minute from the Independent Children’s Lawyer. These orders established equal shared parental responsibility for B, with B to live with the mother. B was to spend time with the father each Wednesday, and both parents were directed to engage in family therapy. Crucially, the father was restrained from allowing B contact with C, except during family therapy sessions as recommended by the therapist. The parties were also to otherwise agree on B's time with the father.