Whittaker and Bardot

This matter concerned parenting orders made by Judge Cole in relation to a child, X. The dispute revolved around the living arrangements and parental responsibilities for the child following the separation of the parents, Whittaker and Bardot.

The court was required to determine the primary residence of the child, the nature of parental responsibility, and the specific arrangements for the child's time with each parent. Additionally, the court had to consider provisions regarding communication between the parents, the mother's attendance at school functions and extracurricular activities, and restrictions on the mother's consumption of alcohol and drugs. The court also addressed injunctions to prevent harassment and denigration between the parties and to protect the child from exposure to conflict and substance abuse.

Judge Cole ordered that the child, X, live with the father and that the parties share equal parental responsibility. Specific time arrangements were detailed for the mother's time with the child, including weekends, school holidays, and communication by telephone. The orders also stipulated that the mother be substantially present during her time with the child and outlined procedures for handovers. Crucially, an injunction was imposed on the mother restraining her from ingesting alcohol or drugs for 24 hours prior to and during her time with the child, with exceptions for prescribed and over-the-counter medications taken as directed. Further injunctions were made against both parties, prohibiting harassment, denigration of the other parent in the child's presence, discussing proceedings with the child, exposing the child to conflict, and making non-emergency telephone calls. The court also ordered that each party keep the other informed of their contact details and medical information concerning the child, and authorised communication between schools and medical professionals with both parents.

The court discharged the appointment of the Independent Children's Lawyer and dismissed the proceedings otherwise.