KANDA & KANDA

This matter concerned parenting orders sought by the parties in relation to their three children, X, Y, and Z. The proceedings were before Judge Newbrun.

The court was required to determine the best interests of the children, specifically concerning their living arrangements, parental responsibility, and the allocation of time spent with each parent. Further issues included the provision of educational and psychological support for the children, and the management of specific behavioural and mental health concerns identified for X.

In reaching its decision, the court applied the principles of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), focusing on the paramount consideration of the children's best interests. The court made orders for equal shared parental responsibility, with the mother having sole responsibility for educational decisions. The children were ordered to live with the mother, with specific provisions for their transition and settlement into her care. The orders also detailed extensive arrangements for the children to spend time with the father, including provisions for communication and the sharing of information regarding the children's health and education. The court also made orders for the mother to engage therapeutic services for X and for family therapy, and for both parents to refrain from criticising each other in the children's presence.