DUMAS & CLINE

In the Family Court of Australia, before Barry J, Ms Dumas (the applicant mother) sought interim parenting orders that there be no contact between the father and the child.

The central legal issue before the court was whether it was in the child's best interests to have a relationship with both parents, and if so, what interim arrangements should be made to facilitate contact.

The court, applying the overarching principle of the best interests of the child under the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), recognised the importance of a relationship with both parents. Consequently, the court made interim orders by consent for the child to spend time with the father, supervised by the paternal grandparents. These orders stipulated specific times and arrangements for collection and return of the child, and were made subject to the Independent Children's Lawyer advising the paternal grandparents of their supervisory duties. The matter was adjourned for mention, with liberty to apply.