Lockwood and Chalmers

This matter concerned the parenting arrangements for a child, X, born in 2008, between the Mother and the Father. The court was required to determine the specific orders regarding parental responsibility, living arrangements, time spent with each parent, communication between parents, and other related matters concerning the child's welfare.

The court's determination involved establishing a framework for shared parental responsibility, with the Mother having sole parental responsibility but being required to keep the Father informed and seek his input on significant long-term decisions. The orders detailed the child's living arrangements with the Mother, outlining a precise process for the Mother to consult with the Father on proposed decisions, including timelines for communication and the consequences of non-response. The court also set out specific provisions for the Father to consult with the child's medical professionals and receive medical and academic assessments.

Furthermore, the court established detailed arrangements for the Father's time with the child, encompassing school terms, holidays, birthdays, and specific provisions for Christmas and Father's Day. The orders also addressed communication protocols between the parents, including requirements for advising on health matters, emergencies, and general well-being, with limitations on email frequency. Provisions were made for the child's attendance at a nominated medical clinic and language school, and for the Father's ability to enrol the child in extracurricular activities during his time. The court also included injunctions preventing the child's removal from Australia without consent and outlined notice requirements for overseas travel and holidays. Finally, the orders prohibited denigration of either parent in the child's presence and included provisions regarding the exchange of contact details and passports.