Jasper and Jasper

In *Jasper and Jasper*, Dessau J of the Family Court of Australia considered urgent interim parenting orders concerning a child born in December 1994. The proceedings involved applications by the parties, with the court making specific directions regarding the child's representation and the parents' conduct.

The central legal issues before the court were the urgent need for separate representation for the child, the immediate requirements for the parties to undergo drug testing, and the arrangements for a Family Consultant appointment to inform the court's decision. The court also had to determine the interim living arrangements for the child and the filing of further evidence.

Dessau J ordered that the child be separately represented by an Independent Children's Lawyer, requesting Victoria Legal Aid to arrange this urgently. The court also mandated supervised drug testing for both parties, with reports to be provided promptly. Furthermore, the father was ordered to make the child available for an appointment with a Family Consultant, with an oral report to be given to the court shortly thereafter. Crucially, existing orders regarding the child's residence were suspended, and the child was to live with her father until further order. The court also directed the father to file and serve a response and supporting affidavit by a specified date.