Broome and Welch

In the matter of *Broome and Welch*, heard by Hannam J of the Family Court of Australia, the proceedings concerned a dispute between the parties regarding arrangements for their child. The specific nature of the dispute is not detailed, but the orders indicate a focus on the welfare of the child and the gathering of relevant information.

The court was required to determine several procedural matters to facilitate the progression of the case towards trial. These included the preparation and scope of a Family Report, the management and transfer of subpoenaed material, and the ability of the Independent Children’s Lawyer to issue further subpoenas. The court also considered the withdrawal of an application by the mother and the suspension of a previous order.

Hannam J ordered that a Family Report be prepared by a Family Consultant, with access granted to all subpoenaed material, both existing and future. The court also permitted the Independent Children’s Lawyer to issue further subpoenas, with these to be expedited. An application by the mother was withdrawn, and a prior order was suspended. The proceedings were adjourned to November 2014 in Dubbo, with a further directions hearing scheduled in Parramatta upon the availability of the Family Report. Leave was granted for the respondent's solicitor to appear by telephone at the adjourned hearing.