INGRAM & INGRAM

The case of *Ingram & Ingram* involved proceedings before Cleary J concerning the parenting arrangements for two of the parties' three children. The dispute centred on the living arrangements and time spent between the children and their parents, given that one child resided in the USA with the father and the other in Australia with the mother. The father's participation in the final hearing was limited, although he was offered the opportunity to listen to the proceedings by telephone, which he did not take up.

The court was required to determine the best interests of the two younger children, specifically their living arrangements and the extent of time they would spend with each parent. A key issue was how to facilitate meaningful relationships between the children and both parents, as well as between the siblings themselves, despite their geographical separation. The court also considered the proposal for shared parental responsibility.

Cleary J applied the principles of the best interests of the child, noting that both children had meaningful relationships with each parent. The court found it would be counter-productive to force the younger child to travel against his wishes, which could damage his relationship with his father. Consequently, the court ordered that the older child continue to live with the father in the USA and the younger child continue to live with the mother in Australia. Both children were to spend time with their other parent and siblings during school holidays in both countries, with detailed provisions for travel and communication. The court also made orders for equal shared parental responsibility for both children.