GRAINGER & GRAINGER (SUPPLEMENTARY REASONS)

This case concerned supplementary reasons issued by Tree J in the Family Court of Australia, addressing both parenting and property matters between the parties, Grainger & Grainger. The parenting dispute involved orders concerning the child L Grainger, including sole parental responsibility for the mother, supervised time with the father, and the involvement of a psychologist. The property dispute related to the sale of the former matrimonial home and the apportionment of expenses and proceeds.

The court was required to determine the specific terms of parenting orders, including the extent of the mother's sole parental responsibility and the conditions under which the child would spend time with the father. This involved defining the role of a psychologist in facilitating supervised time and preparing the child for these sessions. In relation to property, the court needed to establish the process for selling the former matrimonial home, how rental income and sale proceeds would be applied, and how any remaining balance would be disbursed, particularly concerning contributions to Legal Aid NSW.

Regarding parenting, the court discharged previous orders and granted the mother sole parental responsibility for the child, with specific provisions for the father's involvement in major long-term decisions. The child was ordered to live with the mother, and time with the father was to be supervised, with a psychologist appointed to assist in preparing the child and potentially directing the nature of the time spent. The court also imposed restrictions on both parents regarding denigration and discussing proceedings with the child, and mandated the completion of parenting courses. On the property front, the court ordered the sale of the former matrimonial home, with specific timelines and reserve prices. Rental income was to be applied to outstanding mortgage and property expenses. The proceeds were to be disbursed in a defined order, including mortgage discharge, rates, levies, agent commissions, conveyancing costs, and then to Legal Aid NSW and the parties in specified percentages.