Walters and Castle and Anor

In the matter of *Walters and Castle and Anor*, Carter J of the Family Court of Australia considered parenting orders concerning children P and M. The proceedings involved the applicant, Ms Walters, the mother, Ms Samson, and the father. The father indicated his intention to withdraw from the proceedings and subsequently did so.

The court was required to determine the parenting arrangements for the children, specifically regarding parental responsibility, living arrangements, and the time the children would spend with each parent. The court also considered the role of the Independent Children’s Lawyer and the consequences of contravening any orders made.

The orders made by the court were by consent of the applicant, the mother, and the Independent Children’s Lawyer. The court discharged all previous parenting orders. The mother, Ms Samson, was granted sole parental responsibility for the children, and they were ordered to live with her. Specific arrangements were made for the children to spend time and communicate with Ms Walters, including during school holidays and by telephone. The father was to spend time and communicate with the children at times and conditions agreed in writing between him and the mother. Ms Walters was to be solely responsible for the costs of travel for changeovers between her and the mother. The court also noted the father's withdrawal from the proceedings and his decision not to pursue time or communication with the children at that time.