ILAN & ILAN

In the matter of *Ilan & Ilan*, Benjamin J of the Family Court of Australia considered a dispute between the parents concerning their child. The father sought to travel overseas with the child for a period of six weeks, which the mother opposed. Mutual injunctive orders were already in place preventing either parent from removing the child from Australia without the other's written consent or a court order.

The court was required to determine whether to grant the father's application for international travel with the child, despite the mother's opposition and the existing injunctive orders. Additionally, the court addressed the broader issues of the child's living arrangements, time spent with each parent, and communication with the father, as well as the need for orders preventing mutual denigration between the parents.

Benjamin J made orders for the child to live with the mother, and detailed specific periods for the child to spend time with the father, including during school terms, holidays, and on specific occasions like Father's Day and the child's birthday. The court also made orders for the child to have telephone communication with the father when he is interstate or overseas. Crucially, the court reiterated and reinforced the existing injunctive orders restraining either parent from removing the child from Australia without the other's written permission or a court order. Furthermore, orders were made prohibiting either parent from denigrating the other to or in the presence of the child, and from discussing parenting issues, court proceedings, or orders with the child. The parties were directed to communicate parenting concerns via email, except in emergencies.