Merton and Merton

In *Merton and Merton*, Guest J made orders concerning the parenting arrangements for the three children of the marriage, born in 1998, 1999, and 2001. The dispute centred on the living arrangements and time spent with the children by each parent.

The court was required to determine the primary residence of the children, the nature of parental responsibility, and the specific arrangements for the husband's time with the children, including during school holidays and special occasions. Additionally, the court addressed the parents' obligations regarding the children's health, including their autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, and the requirement for appropriate transportation.

Guest J ordered that the children live with the wife and that both parents share parental responsibility. The husband was granted specific periods of time with the children, including alternate Wednesdays to Mondays, half of each school term holiday, and specific arrangements for summer holidays and Christmas. The orders also stipulated that the husband must be available to care for the children during his allocated time, and if he is not, the children remain with the wife. Furthermore, the parents are to consult with medical and mental health practitioners regarding the children's health and comply with recommended treatment regimes, with particular emphasis on medication and vitamin regimens. The court also mandated that the children be transported in a vehicle that can properly accommodate all three. The orders incorporated a fact sheet detailing the obligations, consequences of contravention, and available assistance, pursuant to sections 65DA(2) and 62B of the relevant legislation.