Finn and Finn (No.3)

This matter concerned child support and parenting arrangements for the child X, before Judge Monahan. The proceedings involved the Father and the Mother, with the Independent Children's Lawyer (ICL) also making orders sought.

The court was required to determine the appropriate child support payable by the Father to the Mother, and to establish parenting orders regarding X's residence, time spent with each parent, and the allocation of parental responsibility for major long-term decisions. Additionally, the court considered orders relating to X's passport, overseas travel, and property settlement between the parties.

The court made orders for a departure from the administrative child support assessment, setting a specific annual rate for a defined period and providing for adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index. In relation to parenting, the court ordered equal shared parental responsibility for major long-term decisions, with the Mother's view prevailing in specific circumstances concerning X's health. The orders detailed X's living arrangements and a phased schedule for time spent with the Father, including provisions for school holidays and specific dates. The court also made orders regarding the completion of parenting courses by both parents, communication between them, and restrictions on X's travel outside of Australia, with specific exceptions for a trip to a particular country by the Mother. A property settlement was ordered, requiring the Father to pay a sum to the Mother within 28 days, with provisions for its release contingent on the Mother's return to Australia with X. The court also made orders regarding the division of chattels, financial assets, and liabilities.