CACCINI & CACCINI

This matter came before Bennett J concerning parenting arrangements for the children, X and Y. The proceedings involved applications for interim parenting orders and the consideration of a Parenting Issues Assessment. The court also addressed the discharge of previous consent orders and the need for further assessments and reports concerning the children's welfare and the parents' capacities.

The court was required to determine the appropriate interim parenting orders, including the sequence and organisation of interviews with a family consultant, and to consider the preparation and delivery of a Children and Parents Issues Assessment. Further, the court needed to address the father's restrictions regarding medical treatment for the children and his communication with their schools and practitioners. The court also considered the need for an updated family report and the scope of matters to be covered within that report, as well as the parents' obligations regarding parenting programs and counselling.

In its reasoning, the court applied principles relating to the best interests of the children under the *Family Law Act 1975*. Pursuant to section 11F of the Act, the court ordered the parties and children to attend appointments with a family consultant, with specific directions regarding timing and responsibilities. The court also discharged previous consent orders and imposed various injunctions, including restraining the father from certain actions concerning the children's medical care and communication with their educational and health professionals. The court further ordered the father to provide his contact details to the children's schools and directed the parents to engage child X with CAMHS and enrol in a Parenting Orders Program. An updated family report was ordered under section 62G(2) of the Act, with specific matters to be addressed, including the children's views, the factors under section 60CC, and the parents' capacity to cooperate. The court also authorised the independent children's lawyer to liaise with relevant professionals and to provide documents in the best interests of the children.

The court adjourned the matter for further consideration of interim parenting orders and to receive the Parenting Issues Assessment by oral report on 19 July 2018. The final hearing, initially scheduled for 12 November 2018, was noted as potentially being vacated depending on developments. The court also directed that evidence and reasons for decision be transcribed.