Arnott and Arnott

The decision in *Arnott and Arnott* concerned parenting orders made by Judge Demack in the Federal Circuit Court. The dispute involved the parents' compliance with court-ordered programs and the appointment of a court expert to prepare a family report concerning their child.

The court was required to determine the specific terms of parenting orders, including the parents' obligations to participate in a parenting program and comply with the directions of a program coordinator. Additionally, the court needed to address the appointment of a court expert, the scope of the expert's report, the provision of relevant materials to the expert, and the apportionment of the costs associated with the report. The court also considered the transfer of proceedings and the future listing of the matter.

Judge Demack made detailed orders regarding the parents' engagement with a Parenting Orders Program, stipulating attendance for assessment, communication with the program coordinator, and participation in recommended activities, including referrals to health professionals. The orders also provided for the relisting of the matter if either parent failed to comply without reasonable excuse. Furthermore, a court expert was appointed, with parents to agree on the expert within seven days, and the expert to be engaged by a specified date. The parents and child were ordered to attend upon the expert for the preparation of a family report, which was to include the child's views, factors under section 60CC of the *Family Law Act 1975*, and any other matters relevant to the child's welfare. The parents were to share equally the costs of the report, with the report writer not obligated to commence work until payment was made. The proceedings were subsequently transferred to the Federal Circuit Court of Australia at Brisbane, with the matter adjourned for a future hearing, and leave granted for the father to appear by telephone.