Sohumba and Egan

Watts J determined the parenting arrangements for the children J and N in proceedings between the Father, Mr Sohumba, and the Maternal Aunt, Ms Egan. The dispute concerned the shared parental responsibility and living arrangements for the children, as well as the extent of time the Maternal Aunt would spend with them.

The court was required to determine the nature of parental responsibility, specifically whether it should be equal shared parental responsibility, and to make orders regarding the children's residence and the time the Maternal Aunt would spend with them. Further issues included the extent of each party's involvement in the children's schooling and medical care, and the circumstances under which physical discipline would be permitted.

Watts J made orders for equal shared parental responsibility, with the children to live with the Father. The Maternal Aunt was granted specific time with the children, including alternate weekends and periods during school holidays, with provisions to coordinate this time with existing orders concerning another child, S. The court also made detailed orders concerning communication between the parties regarding the children's schooling, medical needs, and emergencies, and prohibited denigration of either party in the children's presence. Crucially, the court restrained the Father and Ms H from physically disciplining the children. The Father's application for an adjournment was dismissed.