Watson and Watson (No 3)

In *Watson and Watson (No 3)*, Dessau J of the Family Court of Australia made orders concerning the living arrangements and time spent with the children M, R, and L. The dispute centred on the parental responsibilities and contact arrangements for these children.

The court was required to determine the primary residence of the children M and R, and to establish specific time arrangements for the father to spend with them. Additionally, the court needed to set out the holiday and communication arrangements for all three children, including L, who attended boarding school. The court also addressed conditions relating to the father's conduct and treatment, as well as provisions for parental communication and the children's welfare during transitions.

The orders were made by consent in part, reflecting an agreement between the parties on significant aspects of the children's care. The court ordered that M and R live with the Wife, and detailed specific periods for the Husband to spend time with them, including weekends, weekdays, and school holidays. Provisions were also made for L's holiday time and for his involvement when he had an "Exeat Weekend" from boarding school. The court imposed conditions on the Husband, requiring him to continue psychiatric treatment and to abstain from alcohol prior to and during his time with the children. Further orders stipulated that neither party was to denigrate the other, and that the parties were to attend counselling. The court also authorised the Wife to obtain school reports for L and attend school events.

The final orders discharged previous arrangements, established the children's primary residence with the Wife, and set out detailed contact schedules for the Husband. The court also included provisions for communication, parental conduct, and therapeutic interventions. The applications for Final Orders were adjourned for a Directions Hearing, and a Fact Sheet detailing obligations and consequences of contravention was attached to the orders.