SHIPTON & SHIPTON

This matter came before Dawe J concerning a dispute between a husband and wife, Mr and Ms Shipton. The proceedings involved applications for discovery of documents, spouse maintenance, and interim property settlement.

The court was required to determine the extent of discovery to be provided by the wife concerning financial matters, including ledgers and bank statements related to beneficiary loans and a head office loan from a B Trust, as well as communications with the Australian Taxation Office regarding outstanding payroll tax liabilities of the C Group. Additionally, the court was to consider interim spouse maintenance and property settlement.

Dawe J ordered the wife to provide specific ledgers and bank statements from the B Trust by 6 November 2015. The wife was also ordered to provide further discovery of documents and communications with the ATO and Pace Lawyers concerning payroll tax liabilities. The court ordered the wife to pay spouse maintenance of $1,228.00 per week to the husband, with the first payment due on 21 October 2015. Further consideration of spouse maintenance and interim property settlement was adjourned to 9 December 2015. Directions were also given for the filing and service of affidavits and updated financial statements by the parties.