Dixon and Anor and Dixon

This matter concerned interim parenting orders sought by the applicants, the father and paternal grandmother of the child [X], against the respondent mother. The parties presented contrasting proposed orders regarding the child's time with the mother, following initial consent orders that established the child living with the applicants, continuing schooling, and attending counselling. A key point of contention was whether the child should spend overnight time with the mother, a proposal opposed by the father due to concerns about the mother's undisclosed housemates, despite the mother's solicitor suggesting arrangements could be made for their absence during the child's visits.

The court was required to determine the appropriate interim living arrangements and time spent between the child and the mother, with the paramount consideration being the best interests of the child as mandated by section 60CA of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth). This involved considering the factors outlined in section 60CC of the Act, particularly in light of the differing proposals and the concerns raised regarding the mother's living situation and the potential impact on the child's stability and safety.

In reaching its decision, the court applied the principles of the *Family Law Act 1975*, prioritising the child's best interests. The court considered the Family Consultant's memorandum and the specific concerns raised by the father regarding the mother's living arrangements. Ultimately, the court made orders for the mother to spend time with the child on specific days and times, commencing from March 2015, but these arrangements did not include overnight time, reflecting the unresolved issues surrounding the mother's accommodation.