Ferrer and Oldham

In the matter of Ferrer and Oldham, before Judge Kemp, the parties sought orders concerning the parenting arrangements for their child, X. The dispute centred on the division of parental responsibility, living arrangements, and communication protocols for the child.

The court was required to determine the specific terms of parenting orders, including the allocation of equal shared parental responsibility, the day-to-day decision-making authority of each parent, and the detailed living arrangements for the child, both during school terms and holidays. Further issues included provisions for special occasions, communication between parents and the child, and the exchange of information regarding the child's welfare and development. The court also considered orders relating to medical treatment, school involvement, and respectful communication between the parents.

The court's decision was largely based on the consent of both the mother and the father. Consequently, previous parenting orders were discharged, and new orders were made by consent. These orders established equal shared parental responsibility, with each parent having sole responsibility for day-to-day decisions when the child was in their care. Detailed living arrangements were outlined, transitioning from the father's care before school commencement to a more significant period with the father after the child commenced school, conditional on the father constructing a separate bedroom. The orders also included provisions for special occasions, communication, information sharing, and dispute resolution.

By consent, the court made comprehensive orders regarding the parenting arrangements for the child, X. These included provisions for equal shared parental responsibility, specific living arrangements, communication protocols, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The court also issued an injunction restraining either parent from taking the child to specialist medical appointments without the other's written consent, except in emergencies or with the current treating paediatrician. No orders were made as to costs, and the matter was removed from the list of cases awaiting finalisation.