HARDIN & GIFFORD

In the matter of Hardin & Gifford, heard before Judge Altobelli, the dispute concerned interim parenting arrangements for two children, [X] (born 2009) and [Y] (born 2001). The applicant mother sought specific orders regarding her contact with child [X], while the respondent father sought orders for the children to live with him.

The court was required to determine the interim living arrangements for the children and the nature and extent of the mother's future contact with child [X], particularly in light of concerns regarding the risk of harm to the child. This involved assessing the immediate welfare of the children and establishing a framework for supervised contact that prioritised the child's safety and well-being.

The court ordered that child [X] live with the respondent father and child [Y] live with the applicant mother. The mother was granted limited telephone contact with child [X] for an initial period of four weeks, after which supervised face-to-face time was to commence, contingent on the mother not being under the influence of illicit drugs or alcohol. The supervision was to be facilitated by CatholicCare Town A, or in the interim, by Contact Services or the respondent's parents. The orders also stipulated various requirements for both parents to engage with CatholicCare, including attending assessments and complying with their directions. Further orders addressed communication between the parents, information sharing regarding the children's welfare, drug screening for the mother, and prohibitions against derogatory remarks or discussing court proceedings with the children. The matter was adjourned for a mention to review progress and consider expert evidence.