Delaney and Timmins

The decision in *Delaney and Timmins* concerned an application before Dessau J in the Family Court of Australia. The dispute involved parenting arrangements for the children of the marriage, with specific orders being made regarding drug testing for the father, an updated family report, therapeutic counselling for one of the children, and passport arrangements for another child. The court also set timelines for the filing of affidavits, witness lists, and other documents in preparation for a final hearing.

The legal issues before the court revolved around ensuring the welfare and best interests of the children in the context of their parents' separation. This included determining appropriate measures to address concerns about the father's drug use, facilitating the children's therapeutic needs, and resolving practical matters such as obtaining passports. The court was also required to manage the procedural aspects of the case to ensure it was ready for final determination.

In reaching its decision, Dessau J applied principles of family law concerning the paramountcy of the child's welfare. The orders made reflect a considered approach to risk management, evident in the requirement for supervised drug screens and the involvement of a family report writer and a therapist. The court also emphasised the importance of procedural fairness and efficiency by setting clear deadlines for the parties to file necessary documentation and by requesting a telephone mention to confirm readiness for trial. The orders also incorporated a Fact Sheet detailing the obligations and consequences of contravention, pursuant to sections 65DA(2) and 62B of the relevant legislation.