Sadler and Roberts

In the matter of *Sadler and Roberts*, heard by Judge Coker, the dispute concerned parenting orders for three children. The previous parenting orders were discharged, and new orders were made regarding the children's long-term care, welfare, and development, as well as their day-to-day care and living arrangements.

The court was required to determine the extent of parental responsibility for significant decisions concerning the children's upbringing, including their education, religious and cultural upbringing, health, name, and changes to living arrangements that might impact time with the other parent. Additionally, the court needed to establish the children's primary residence, the father's time with the children, and specific arrangements for holidays, special days, and communication between parents and children. The court also addressed practical matters such as the provision of clothing and property, and issued injunctions to ensure the children's safety and well-being, including prohibitions against denigration, excessive alcohol consumption, illicit drug use, domestic violence, and exposure to sexually explicit material.

The court reasoned that the mother should have sole parental responsibility for long-term decisions, subject to a requirement to consult with the father. The children were ordered to live with the mother, with the father to spend time with them on alternate weekends and for half of the school holidays, with detailed provisions for the division of these periods. Specific arrangements were made for birthdays, Mother's Day, Father's Day, and Christmas. The court also mandated communication protocols, including telephone contact and the method of communication between parents, and outlined responsibilities for children's property and clothing. Injunctions were imposed to protect the children from harmful behaviours and to ensure parental privacy and cooperation. The Independent Children's Lawyer was discharged.