LEXOR & LEXOR

This matter concerned parenting orders for a child of the relationship, brought before Watts J. The dispute involved an initial application by both parents for sole parental responsibility and for the other parent to have no time with the child, complicated by a history of family violence. The proceedings had previously been adjourned for family therapy, which proved unsuccessful.

The court was required to determine the appropriate parenting arrangements for the child, specifically regarding parental responsibility, the child's living arrangements, and the extent of time the child would spend with each parent. Additionally, the court had to consider injunctive relief to protect the child, including prohibitions on the father attending the child's school and place of residence, and the father's ability to communicate with the child.

Watts J applied principles under the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), including section 68B concerning prohibitions on attending certain places. Crucially, at the conclusion of final submissions, the father significantly amended his sought orders. He agreed to the mother having sole parental responsibility and for the child to live with the mother. The father's time with the child was to be facilitated by the mother only if she formed the opinion that it was safe for the child, and he was otherwise prohibited from attending the child's school and residence, with limited exceptions for formal parent-teacher nights with prior notice and when the child was not present. The father was permitted to send cards and gifts, with specific arrangements for their delivery.

The court ordered that the mother have sole parental responsibility and that the child live with the mother. The child was to spend no time with the father, subject to the mother facilitating communication or time if she deemed it safe. The father was prohibited from attending the child's school and residence, except for specific, controlled circumstances related to parent-teacher nights. The mother was ordered to cease working with a particular individual. Arrangements were made for the father to send cards and gifts to the child, including the establishment of a post office box. The application by the Independent Children's Lawyer for costs was dismissed.