Charter & Charter 2013 FCCA 1000

Parents disputed arrangements for three children aged 11, 7 and 6 years.  The mother gave evidence that the father had not attended for 46 of 50 arranged visits (parental attitude).  The father noted that his own father had died during the period in discussion (reasonable excuse).  Evidence was given that the children did not want to spend time with their father following exposure to family violence (reluctant to contact).

The judge did not issue an order for the children to spend time with their father.  The judge adjourned the hearing for one month to give the father a further opportunity to attend therapy and to demonstrate a commitment towards his children (therapy for parent).