REGAN & REGAN

In the matter of *Regan & Regan*, the wife sought interim orders for exclusive occupation of the former matrimonial home and parenting orders concerning the parties' three children. The relationship between the parties was described as toxic, and a family consultant indicated that the current situation was causing distress to the children. The wife agreed to be responsible for mortgage repayments and utilities for the home.

The court was required to determine whether to grant the wife exclusive occupation of the family home on an interim basis, considering the acrimonious nature of the relationship and the impact on the children. Furthermore, the court had to make parenting orders, addressing issues of equal shared parental responsibility, the husband's desire for equal time, and the wife's assertion that the children's relationship with the husband was deteriorating due to his alleged excessive alcohol consumption. The overarching consideration for the parenting orders was the best interests of the children.

Watts J reasoned that granting the wife exclusive occupation of the home was appropriate given the circumstances, with the wife to assume responsibility for mortgage repayments and utilities, and both parties sharing council and water rates. Regarding parenting, the court acknowledged the parties' consent to equal shared parental responsibility but noted the fractured relationship between the children and the husband, and the parties' inability to co-parent effectively. Consequently, the court made parenting orders that reflected the wife's proposals, including specific time arrangements for the children with each parent and provisions for communication and decision-making. The court also ordered that the applications for final property settlement be expedited.