Boreham and Dawkins

In the matter of *Boreham and Dawkins*, Bennett J of the Federal Circuit Court of Australia considered applications concerning parenting orders for a child, X. The proceedings involved contravention applications filed by both the father and the mother, which were ultimately dismissed. The court also addressed applications to vary the primary parenting order made on 23 September 2014.

The court was required to determine the appropriate parenting arrangements for the child, X, including the specific time the child would spend with the father. Additionally, the court needed to consider the role of a Family Consultant and the independent representation of the child's interests. The court also had to decide on the procedural steps necessary to facilitate a comprehensive assessment of the child's welfare and the family's circumstances.

Bennett J dismissed the contravention applications, indicating that the parties were to prepare for an interim hearing to address variations to the primary parenting order. The court made specific orders regarding the child's time with the father, modifying the existing arrangements to include specific periods during the summer vacation and clarifying the alternate weekend regime. The court also directed the parties to attend appointments with a Family Consultant, who was requested to prepare a Children and Parents Issues Assessment addressing various welfare concerns. Furthermore, the court ordered the independent representation of the child's interests by a lawyer, requesting Victoria Legal Aid to arrange this. The court also set out a timetable for the parties to file and serve further material and applications in anticipation of the adjourned hearing.