Nilssen and Kenwood

In the matter of Nilssen and Kenwood, heard before Judge Vasta, the court was tasked with determining parenting orders concerning a child born in 2014. The dispute centred on the arrangements for the child's care, welfare, and development, including parental responsibility, living arrangements, and time spent with each parent. A significant aspect of the case involved restrictions placed upon the father concerning religious activities and contact with specific religious groups.

The court was required to determine the extent of parental responsibility, specifically whether it should be sole or shared, and to establish a detailed schedule for the child's time with each parent. Key legal issues included the father's exposure of the child to religious beliefs and practices, the mother's need for counselling regarding her fears of the father's religious beliefs, and the general communication protocols between the parents regarding the child's welfare and education. The court also considered provisions for interstate and overseas travel and the exchange of information between parents and the child's educational and medical providers.

Judge Vasta ordered that the mother have sole parental responsibility for the child, with specific provisions outlining the process for the mother to notify the father of significant decisions and consider his input. The child was ordered to live with the mother, and a detailed schedule for the child's time with the father was established, including specific dates and alternate Saturdays, as well as arrangements for special occasions. Crucially, the father was restrained from taking the child to religious gatherings or exposing the child to certain religious interpretations and groups, with the mother authorised to seek counselling for her fears. The orders also mandated respectful communication between the parents, outlined procedures for travel, and ensured both parents had access to the child's educational and medical information.