Oltman and Harper

In the matter of *Oltman and Harper*, heard before Young J, the dispute concerned the costs of a hearing on 24 July 2009, as well as the future conduct of property and financial proceedings. The court was required to determine the quantum and payment terms of the costs awarded, and to make orders regarding the disclosure of financial information and the future management of the substantive property proceedings.

The court's reasoning focused on ensuring a fair and efficient resolution of the outstanding matters. Young J ordered that the husband pay the wife's costs of the 24 July 2009 hearing, assessed at $5,000. These costs were to be paid within three months of the order, or upon the settlement of the property proceedings if that occurred sooner. The court also stipulated that interest would accrue on any outstanding costs six months from the date of the order, payable quarterly in arrears at the rate prescribed by the Family Law Rules.

Furthermore, the court directed that within fourteen days, the solicitors for both parties were to prepare affidavits detailing their clients' current assets, financial resources, and liabilities. The husband was specifically required to disclose any ownership, past or present, of taxi vehicles or licences. The court also ordered that the further hearing of all property and financial matters be redirected to the Federal Magistrates Court, with a financial conciliation conference to be scheduled thereafter.