SMITHFIELD & SMITHFIELD

In the matter of SMITHFIELD & SMITHFIELD, Berman J of the Family Court of Australia considered parenting orders concerning two children, B and C. The dispute revolved around the future care arrangements and parental responsibilities for these children.

The court was required to determine the appropriate parenting orders, specifically addressing issues of parental responsibility for major long-term decisions concerning the children's care, welfare, and development, as well as their living arrangements. The court also considered the necessity of continuing with previously scheduled hearings and the role of an Independent Children's Lawyer.

Applying the principles of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), particularly sections 62B and 65DA(2), Berman J made orders discharging all previous parenting orders. The court ordered that the mother shall have sole parental responsibility for decisions concerning the children's major long-term care, welfare, and development, and that the children shall live with the mother. Consequently, a directions hearing and a trial were vacated, and the order for the appointment of an Independent Children’s Lawyer was discharged. The proceedings were also removed from the Acting Pending List of Cases. The court further directed that a document detailing the obligations, consequences of contravention, and sources of assistance for compliance with these orders be annexed to the orders.