SEDLEY & SEDLEY

In the matter of *Sedley & Sedley*, heard by Cronin J, the husband sought orders for contravention of final parenting orders, alleging the wife had breached provisions requiring mutual communication and non-denigration. The wife conceded some breaches but argued they were insignificant. The husband also sought findings on contributions, notwithstanding the parties' agreement to attend family therapy.

The primary legal issue before the court was whether the wife's conduct constituted a contravention of the final parenting orders. A secondary issue concerned the husband's continued pursuit of findings on contributions in circumstances where the parties had agreed to engage in family therapy.

Cronin J found that the wife had indeed breached the parenting orders. His Honour reasoned that while individual breaches might appear minor, collectively they demonstrated a lack of respect for the husband's parenting role and an disregard for the importance of their agreed communication protocols. Consequently, the court determined that a costs order was the appropriate remedy for the contravention. The court also noted the parties' consent to attend family therapy, which was to be non-reportable and with costs shared equally.

The court ordered that the wife pay the husband's costs fixed at $8,600. The contravention application was otherwise dismissed. The parties were ordered to attend family therapy by consent, and Mr B was to be provided with the reasons for judgment and the orders.