Lang and Womack

This matter concerned an application by the Mother and Father regarding the parenting arrangements for their two children, [X] and [Y]. The dispute centred on the living arrangements for the children and the extent of each parent's time with them, as well as provisions for communication and decision-making regarding the children's welfare and schooling.

The court was required to determine the primary residence of the children and the nature of parental responsibility for long-term issues. Further, the court needed to establish a detailed schedule for the Father's time with the children, including during school terms, school holidays, and specific public holidays, as well as outlining communication protocols between the parents and with third parties involved in the children's lives. The court also had to consider provisions for emergencies and the process for addressing welfare concerns.

In its determination, the court ordered that the children live with the Mother and that both parents share equal parental responsibility for major long-term issues. A comprehensive schedule was set for the Father's time with the children, encompassing alternate weekends, specific holiday periods, and regular telephone contact. The orders also stipulated how changeovers would occur, the rights of both parents to attend school functions, and the exchange of information regarding the children's education and health. Provisions were made for communication between the parents, including a requirement to attempt to resolve welfare concerns directly before involving external agencies, and for the Father to manage communication from a third party, Ms M, regarding the children. The court also directed the parents to attend a family consultant session.