Colgan & Colgan

In *Colgan & Colgan*, Rees J made orders concerning the living arrangements and time spent with the children K and L, and the parents' conduct. The dispute involved the parents' arrangements for their children, with the court issuing orders regarding the children's residence, time with each parent, communication, and parental responsibilities.

The court was required to determine the specific arrangements for K and L to spend time with their father, including the frequency and duration of these periods. Additionally, the court addressed the parties' undertakings regarding drug and alcohol testing, their obligations to keep each other informed of contact details, and the requirement to attend a parenting course. The court also considered the need for a single expert to report on various aspects of the children's welfare and the parties' capacities, and imposed restraints on the parties' behaviour towards each other and the children.

Rees J applied principles relating to the best interests of the children, as enshrined in the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth). The orders reflect a carefully considered approach to managing the children's time with each parent, incorporating measures to ensure their safety and well-being, such as supervised urine analysis and behavioural restraints. The appointment of a single expert was a key component, aimed at providing an independent assessment to inform future decisions regarding the children's welfare. The court also made orders by consent on several matters, indicating agreement between the parties on those specific issues.

The final orders stipulated that the children K and L live with the mother, with detailed provisions for their time spent with the father. The orders also included undertakings regarding drug and alcohol testing, communication, and parental conduct, and mandated the appointment of a single expert to report on the children's welfare. The mother was also ordered to indemnify the father for certain car-related costs.