CANN & CHAPPEL

In the matter of *CANN & CHAPPEL*, Newbrun J of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia considered an application for interim parenting orders. The dispute concerned the arrangements for a child, with the court tasked with determining what orders were in the best interests of the child on an interim basis.

The central legal issue before the court was how to apply the paramount consideration of the child's best interests in the context of interim parenting proceedings. This involved assessing the evidence presented by the parties regarding the child's welfare and determining the most appropriate interim arrangements to safeguard that welfare pending a final hearing.

Newbrun J applied the principles enshrined in the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), particularly section 60CC, which outlines the factors to be considered when determining the best interests of a child. The court weighed the evidence concerning the child's relationship with each parent, the potential risks of harm, and the capacity of each parent to provide for the child's needs. The judge emphasised that interim orders should maintain the status quo as far as possible, unless there is a compelling reason to depart from it to protect the child. The court's focus was on ensuring the child's safety and well-being during the interim period.