Ethel and Dobbs (No 2)

In *Ethel and Dobbs (No 2)*, the Family Court of Australia considered interim orders concerning a child, L. The proceedings involved the mother and father of L, and the dispute centred on the father's time with the child. While there was an intention for the father to have unsupervised time, recent affidavit material raised concerns that required determination at trial.

The court was required to determine the appropriate interim arrangements for L's time with the father, balancing the father's desire for increased contact with the need to ensure L's safety and wellbeing. Specifically, the court had to consider whether the father's time with L should continue to be supervised, and what conditions should apply to any contact. The overarching principle guiding the court's decision was the best interests of the child.

The court reasoned that it was appropriate to maintain a stable and secure environment for L pending the final determination of the issues. Consequently, the court ordered that the father's time with L would continue to be supervised by either the father's mother or daughter. Further orders were made regarding communication between the parents, including facilitated Skype contact and the use of a communication book for matters directly relevant to L's care. Handovers were to occur within a Police Station, and the father was restrained from consuming illicit substances for a period before and during his time with L, and from bathing L.