Hepburn and McIver

In the matter of *Hepburn and McIver*, heard before Judge Burchardt, the dispute concerned parenting arrangements for two children, [X] and [Y]. The court was required to determine the primary caregiver for the children, the extent of the father's time with them, and the conditions under which that time would occur, as well as to establish communication protocols and protective measures for the children.

The court's reasoning focused on establishing a framework that prioritised the children's welfare. This involved granting the mother sole parental responsibility and determining that the children would live with her. The father's time with the children was carefully delineated, with a significant condition imposed: all his time with them was to be supervised by the paternal grandparents. Further orders addressed communication between the parents regarding the children's health and education, and the father's liberty to attend school and extracurricular events.

Crucially, the court issued injunctions to protect the children from parental conflict, denigration, and exposure to adverse influences such as illicit drugs and alcohol. The orders also stipulated that neither parent was to discuss the proceedings or parenting issues with the children. The court also included a Fact Sheet, pursuant to sections 65DA and 62B of the relevant legislation, detailing the obligations created by the orders, the consequences of contravention, and sources of assistance for compliance. The final orders discharged all previous parenting orders and established these new arrangements.