METFORD & FADDIN (No.2)

In *Metford & Faddin (No.2)*, Judge Cassidy of the Federal Circuit Court of Australia made final orders concerning the living arrangements and parental responsibility for four children. The dispute centred on the parents' ability to communicate and make joint decisions regarding the children.

The court was required to determine the primary residence of the children and the allocation of parental responsibility, specifically addressing the issue of sole parental responsibility due to a failure to communicate. Additionally, the court needed to establish a detailed schedule for the children's time with each parent, including provisions for communication and specific arrangements for holidays and special days. The court also considered orders relating to the exchange of information between parents regarding the children's health and education, and directives on how parents should conduct themselves in the children's presence.

Judge Cassidy ordered that the children live with the mother and that she have sole parental responsibility. This decision was based on the father's failure to communicate effectively, requiring the mother to consult him on decisions and make the final determination if agreement could not be reached. A specific schedule was set for the children to spend time with the father, involving five nights per fortnight during school terms and alternating weeks during school holidays, with provisions for reasonable telephone and FaceTime contact. The orders also mandated that parents keep each other informed of significant matters concerning the children's health and education, and crucially, that they speak respectfully of each other and not denigrate the other parent in the children's presence. The matter was adjourned for judgment on costs.