HULLS & HULLS

The case of Hulls & Hulls involved proceedings before Hogan J concerning parenting and property matters. The dispute centred on arrangements for the children, B and C, and the division of the parties' assets. The court was required to make interim orders addressing these issues, including the children's living arrangements, time spent with each parent, and the preparation of financial statements and reports.

The legal issues before the court included determining the interim parenting arrangements for the children, specifically with whom they would live and the extent of time they would spend with each parent. The court also considered the need for a psychiatric report concerning the father, although this was not ultimately ordered. In relation to property, the court was tasked with making interim orders for the preparation of financial statements and the management and distribution of assets held by various entities, including companies and trusts.

Hogan J made a series of consent orders regarding the parenting arrangements, stipulating that the children would live with the mother, with specific provisions for time spent with the father, including during school holidays and term time. The court also ordered equal shared parental responsibility for major long-term issues. Undertakings were given by both parents regarding their conduct in the presence of the children and their communication about court matters. A Family Report was ordered to be prepared by Mr D, focusing on the children's issues, relevant factors under section 60CC of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), and recommendations for co-parenting.

The property orders involved directing the declaration of a dividend and its distribution, authorising a partial property settlement, and imposing restrictions on withdrawals from company accounts. The court also ordered the sale of a business owned by G Pty Ltd, appointing Mr S as Trustee for sale and outlining the powers and obligations of the Trustee and the parties in the sale process. Various other orders were made concerning the disclosure of financial documents, the review of business valuations, and the return or retention of specific items of property as part of the partial property settlement. The parenting component of the matter was adjourned for a further interim hearing.