Vancell & Wellen

In the matter of DNC 45 of 2021, Mr Vancell (the applicant father) and Ms Wellen (the respondent mother) presented a dispute concerning their child, X, born in 2009. The orders were made by Judge Young in the Family Court of Australia on 13 April 2021.

The court was required to determine interim arrangements for the child's residence, time spent with each parent, and related matters pending a final trial. Specifically, the court needed to decide which interim orders from 9 February 2021 should be discharged, the child's primary residence, and the terms of the child's time with the mother, including during school holidays and other periods. The court also had to consider the child's schooling, the father's financial responsibilities, and the preparation of a Family Report.

The court ordered the discharge of certain interim orders, while others were to remain in effect. The child was to return to the father in Darwin by 17 April 2021 and reside with him pending the final trial. The mother was to be included on the child's enrolment form, and specific arrangements were made for the child to spend time with the mother during school holidays and other periods, subject to notice and non-interference with the father's plans. The father was to be solely responsible for tuition and extra-curricular activity costs. The parties and the child were ordered to attend a Family Consultant for a Family Report.