Dawson and Wright

In the matter of *Dawson and Wright*, Johns J of the Family Court of Australia considered applications concerning the welfare of the parties' children. The proceedings involved disputes between the parties regarding contravention applications and arrangements for the children.

The court was required to determine the appropriate orders regarding the withdrawal of contravention applications, the psychiatric assessment of the parties, supervised time between the respondent and the children, and family counselling. The court also needed to consider the allocation of costs for these assessments and supervision, and to ensure the parties understood their obligations and the consequences of contravention.

Johns J, by consent of the parties, ordered the withdrawal of contravention applications filed by the respondent. The court also ordered that both parties attend a psychiatric assessment and report by Professor B, with the costs to be borne equally. Further, the respondent was ordered to spend supervised time with the children on an alternate weekend basis, with the costs of supervision to be borne by the respondent. Upon completion of four supervised visits, the parties and children were to commence family counselling. The court also made orders pursuant to sections 65DA(2) and 62B of the relevant legislation, detailing the obligations and consequences of contravening the orders, which were to be included in a fact sheet attached to the orders. All extant applications were adjourned for directions.