Jason and Jason

In the matter of *Jason and Jason*, Hannam J of the Family Court of Australia made orders concerning parenting arrangements and related matters. The dispute involved the parents' arrangements for their child, with the Independent Children’s Lawyer playing a significant role in the proceedings.

The court was required to determine the appropriate interim parenting orders and to address the parents' engagement with therapeutic programs and assessments. Key issues included the parents' participation in parenting courses, a specific contact program, and the mother's mental health assessment and referral to a psychologist. The court also considered the Independent Children’s Lawyer's liberty to obtain further information and issue subpoenas, as well as the filing of affidavits regarding practical arrangements.

Hannam J ordered that the previously scheduled hearing dates be vacated and the matter adjourned. The court mandated that both parents enrol in and complete parenting courses nominated by the Independent Children’s Lawyer, with an expectation that commencement would occur within two months. Further, both parents were ordered to use their best endeavours to enrol in and cooperate with the Keeping Contact program. The mother was directed to obtain a mental health assessment and referral to a psychologist, with the Independent Children’s Lawyer authorised to provide relevant reports to these professionals. Leave was granted for the Independent Children’s Lawyer to issue subpoenas, and parties were required to file affidavits detailing practical arrangements. The court also indicated that property orders could be made in chambers upon written submissions.