Ewart and Wilton

This matter concerned applications by Ewart and Wilton, heard by Judge Mercuri. The dispute involved parenting arrangements for the child, [X], born in 2008.

The court was required to determine the extent of parental responsibility, the child's living arrangements, and the specific time each parent would spend with [X]. Further issues included provisions for communication between parents, changeovers, and arrangements for holidays and special occasions. The court also needed to address the parents' obligations regarding the child's education, health, and the exchange of personal information, as well as restrictions on their communication with each other and in the child's presence.

Judge Mercuri ordered the dismissal of all extant applications and the discharge of previous parenting orders. The court established equal shared parental responsibility for [X], with the child to live with the mother. Detailed provisions were made for the father's time with [X], including during school terms, holidays, and on specific occasions like birthdays and Father's Day, with provisions for make-up time. The orders also stipulated how changeovers were to occur, daily telephone contact, and restrictions on altering the child's school enrolment without consent. Each parent was authorised to receive school and medical information concerning [X] and was required to notify the other of any changes to their contact details or travel plans involving the child. The court also imposed restraints on parents denigrating each other or discussing sensitive matters in the child's presence. Finally, the parents were ordered to consult and make joint decisions on major long-term issues concerning [X]'s upbringing, as defined by section 61B of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth).