Delaney and Delaney

This matter came before Judge Small concerning parenting arrangements for four children. The dispute involved an application to vary existing orders made on 8 May 2015, specifically regarding the time the children would spend with their father.

The court was required to determine the appropriate parenting orders for the children, considering their best interests. This included assessing the children's views, relevant factors affecting the weight of those views, and the matters outlined in sections 60CC, 61DA, and 65DAA of the *Family Law Act 1975*. The court also needed to consider the likely effect of proposed orders on the children and any other relevant welfare considerations.

Judge Small made orders that, in addition to the existing arrangements, the children would spend time and communicate with the father from after school until 7:30 pm on alternate Mondays during school terms, commencing 7 December 2015. The court also ordered that a Family Consultant prepare a Family Report, to be paid for equally by both parents. This report was to address the children's views, statutory considerations under the *Family Law Act 1975*, the impact of proposed orders, and any other matters deemed important for the children's welfare. The parties were directed to cooperate with the Family Consultant, providing necessary documents and attending appointments as required.