Lam and Guan

In the matter of *Lam and Guan*, heard before Judge Hughes, the dispute concerned the international travel arrangements for a child, X. The proceedings involved an application for orders restraining the removal of the child from Australia and, subsequently, for orders permitting international travel with specific conditions.

The court was required to determine whether to impose interim restraints on the child's international travel and, thereafter, to establish a framework for future international travel by either parent with the child. This involved balancing the child's best interests with the rights and responsibilities of each parent.

Judge Hughes ordered that until 14 September 2022, neither party was permitted to remove the child from Australia, nor permit any other person to do so, except by written agreement or court order. To enforce this, the Australian Federal Police were requested to place the child's name on the Watchlist at all departure points. From 14 September 2022, international travel with the child was permitted, subject to a detailed set of conditions designed to ensure parental communication, notification, and the child's welfare during such travel. These conditions included requirements for travel during school holidays or with consent, negotiation of make-up time, advance notice, provision of itineraries and contact details, and regular communication with the non-travelling parent.