Graham & Kovacs (No 3)

In *Graham & Kovacs (No 3)*, the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia considered applications concerning children. The father did not appear on the final day of the trial, and the proceedings continued in his absence.

The court was required to determine, amongst other matters, the adequacy of medical evidence provided by the father regarding his fitness to care for the children, and whether an interim order suspending the father's time with the children should be made. The court also considered applications for contravention of orders where the applicant failed to appear.

Her Honour Tree J reasoned that the father's absence from the final day of the trial meant the court could not be satisfied that he was fit to have the children in his care, particularly in light of the Independent Children's Lawyer's role in assessing the adequacy of medical certificates. Consequently, the interim order suspending the father's time with the children was maintained, and the father was required to provide further medical evidence. Applications for contravention of orders were dismissed due to the applicant's non-appearance.