LAKE & PARNELL

In the matter of *Lake & Parnell*, Kari J of the Federal Circuit Court of Australia considered interim parenting orders concerning two young children, aged four and three. The dispute arose after the father had retained the children in his care since Boxing Day 2019. The court was presented with concerns regarding the mother's mental health and the father's alcohol abuse, alongside mutual allegations of family violence. The parties were also living a significant distance apart, approximately three and a half hours by road.

The primary legal issues before the court were how to best ensure the children's welfare and best interests in the interim, given the complex and concerning circumstances. This included determining the children's living arrangements, the nature and supervision of the mother's time with the children, and addressing the identified risks associated with both parents. The court was also required to consider the impact of the geographical separation of the parties on the children's time with each parent.

Kari J reasoned that, in light of the allegations and concerns, a supervised interim arrangement was necessary. The court ordered that the children live with the father, but mandated that all their time with the mother be supervised by her adult daughter. Handover arrangements were to occur at a police station for safety. Furthermore, the father was restrained from consuming alcohol for 24 hours prior to and during the children's time in his care. The court also directed the mother to undergo a psychiatric evaluation and ordered a family report to address the children's views, the matters set out in sections 60CC, 61DA, and 65DAA of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), and any other relevant welfare considerations.

The court made orders accordingly, including provisions for supervised time, communication between the children and the mother, and the preparation of a family report. The proceedings were adjourned for mention.