Kierson and Anor and Fliss

The applicants, Mr and Mrs Kierson, sought orders for contact with their granddaughter, Fliss, from the respondent, Ms Fliss. The matter came before Barry J in the Family Court of Australia. The dispute concerned the paternal grandparents' desire for ongoing contact with their granddaughter, following the breakdown of the relationship between the parents of the child.

The central legal issue before the court was whether it was in the best interests of the child, Fliss, to make orders for contact between her and her paternal grandparents, the Kierson's. This required the court to consider the provisions of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth) concerning the best interests of the child and the factors relevant to determining whether to make a "child representative order" or "contact order" in favour of a grandparent.

Barry J dismissed the application, finding that it was not in Fliss's best interests to make orders for contact. The court's reasoning focused on the specific circumstances of the case, including the existing relationship dynamics and the potential impact of enforced contact on the child. The judge applied the principles of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), which prioritises the best interests of the child above all other considerations when determining parenting arrangements. The court considered the evidence presented by both parties and concluded that the proposed contact would not be beneficial for Fliss.

The application by the Applicant Paternal Grandmother was dismissed. Costs were reserved.