LADAS & LADAS

In *Ladas & Ladas*, the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia considered an application for interim parenting orders concerning two children. The dispute arose in circumstances where the children were reportedly refusing and resisting contact with one parent, following intensive family therapy. One parent was described as highly anxious.

The central legal issue before the court was how to best promote the children's welfare and best interests on an interim basis, given the reported resistance to contact and the parents' respective emotional states. The court was required to examine the expert evidence presented and determine the appropriate interim arrangements for the children's time with each parent.

Altobelli J applied the principles of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), particularly those concerning the best interests of the child. The court considered the expert evidence regarding the children's resistance and the impact of parental anxiety. Ultimately, interim orders were made for the younger children to spend time with the father. The parents were also directed to consider the long-term implications of their actions on the children.