MEREDITH & MEREDITH

The parties to this matter were Mr Meredith and Ms Meredith, who sought orders concerning the parenting of their three children. The dispute concerned the arrangements for the children's living situation, time spent with each parent, and the mother's proposed relocation with the children to Canberra. The matter was heard by Judge Harman.

The court was required to determine the most appropriate orders for the children's welfare, specifically addressing issues of equal shared parental responsibility, the children's primary residence, and the practicalities of the father's time with the children, including the impact of the proposed relocation. The court also considered the need for ongoing communication and cooperation between the parents regarding the children's upbringing and well-being.

In reaching its decision, the court applied the principles of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), focusing on the best interests of the children. The court ordered equal shared parental responsibility, acknowledging the importance of both parents' involvement in the children's lives. The children were ordered to live with their mother, and she was permitted to relocate them to Canberra. The court then detailed specific arrangements for the father's time with the children, both before and after the relocation, including provisions for school holidays and communication. Further orders were made regarding communication, counselling, and the exchange of information between the parents to facilitate co-parenting.

The court dismissed all outstanding applications and responses, removing the matter from the hearing list. The orders also included provisions for the return of exhibits and subpoenaed material upon the expiration of the appeal period, provided no appeal was lodged.