Wick and Wick

In the matter of *Wick and Wick*, Bell J made orders concerning the parental responsibility and living arrangements for three children: B (born 2004), C (born 2007), and D (born 2009). The dispute centred on how parental responsibility and time with the children should be allocated between the Father and the Mother.

The court was required to determine the specific orders for parental responsibility, the children's living arrangements, and the time each parent would spend with the children. Additionally, the court needed to address the need for counselling for the parents, therapy for the children, and the involvement of the Independent Children's Lawyer in organising these services and reports. The court also considered the need for a parenting program for the Mother's partner and the prohibition of physical discipline.

Bell J ordered that the Father have sole parental responsibility for B and C, with the children to live with him. The Mother was granted sole parental responsibility for D, with D to live with her. Specific arrangements were made for the Mother to spend time with B and C on alternate weekends, and for the Father to spend time with D on Saturdays when B and C were with him. The court also detailed arrangements for school holidays and Christmas Day, and mandated telephone contact between the Mother and B and C. Further orders included the parents attending counselling, the children receiving therapy, and the Independent Children's Lawyer organising reports from a counsellor and a child psychiatrist, with costs to be shared equally. The Mother's partner was ordered to complete a Triple P Parenting Program, and both parents were to abstain from physical discipline. An updated Family Report was to be prepared, and the proceedings were adjourned for mention. The orders also included information regarding obligations, consequences of contravention, and assistance available to the parties.