Colombo & Richardson (No 2)

This matter concerned an application by Ms Colombo against Ms Richardson and Mr West concerning the living arrangements and time spent with the children X, Y, and Z. The Federal Circuit Court of Australia, presided over by O'Shannessy J, was required to make orders regarding the children's welfare.

The court was tasked with determining the primary residence of the children, the nature and frequency of their contact with their mother, and the terms of communication between the mother and children. Additionally, the court needed to consider injunctive relief to prevent certain behaviours and to manage the proximity of specific individuals to contact centres. The proceedings also involved directions for a Child Inclusive Conference and the preparation of a Family Report, as well as setting a timetable for future hearings and the filing of evidence.

O'Shannessy J made orders that, until further notice, the children would live with their maternal grandmother. The mother's time with the children was to be supervised by a contact centre, with a request for monthly visits, and the maternal grandmother was responsible for the children's transport to and from these sessions. The court also ordered that the children communicate with their mother by speakerphone each Monday. Injunctions were granted to prevent parties from abusing or discussing the proceedings in the presence of the children, and to restrain the mother's partner and the second respondent from attending the vicinity of the contact centre during supervised visits. The court further directed the parties and children to attend a Child Inclusive Conference and a Family Report assessment, with specific requirements for the content of the report and the matters to be addressed under relevant sections of the *Family Law Act 1975*. The matter was adjourned for an interim defended hearing and a final hearing was scheduled.