Rathborne and Rathborne

This matter concerned parenting orders sought by the mother and father of two children, Z and J. The dispute revolved around the arrangements for the children's living situation, time spent with each parent, and the father's potential relocation. Steele J presided over the proceedings.

The court was required to determine the nature of parental responsibility, where the children would live, and the specific terms of the time each parent would spend with the children. Additionally, the court had to consider and make orders regarding the father's proposed relocation and the communication arrangements between the parents and the children.

Steele J made orders for equal shared parental responsibility, with the children to live with the father. The father was restrained from moving his residence beyond the Central Coast of NSW without the mother's consent or a court order. Detailed provisions were made for the mother's time with the children during school terms, school holidays, and on special occasions, including Christmas and Mother's Day. The orders also stipulated communication rights for the mother, information sharing regarding the children's schooling and medical care, and mutual obligations to act civilly and not denigrate the other parent. The court also directed the parties to note their obligations under the Family Law Act regarding compliance with parenting orders and provided them with a fact sheet outlining the consequences of breaches.