Gaddis and Gaddis

In the matter of *Gaddis and Gaddis*, Hannam J determined parenting orders concerning the care, welfare, and development of four children. The dispute involved the parents' respective responsibilities and the arrangements for the children's time with each parent.

The court was required to determine the extent of equal shared parental responsibility, the specific arrangements for the children's living arrangements and time with each parent, and the procedures for decision-making regarding the children's day-to-day care. Further issues included the protocols for communication between the parents, the management of the children's passports, and the requirement for the children to attend therapy with a clinician experienced in counselling children of separated families.

Hannam J ordered that the parents have equal shared parental responsibility for the children, with each parent having sole responsibility for day-to-day decisions during their respective periods of care. The children were ordered to live with the father, and detailed provisions were made for the mother's time with the children, varying depending on her residence relative to a specific school catchment area. These provisions included specific arrangements for school terms, school holidays, and special occasions, as well as protocols for changeovers, communication, and the facilitation of daily contact. The court also ordered that the mother surrender the children's passports to the father and restrained her from applying for new passports. Finally, both parents were directed to ensure the children attend therapy with an appropriate clinician.