Meredith and Mayes

In the matter of Meredith and Mayes, Brown J of the Family Court of Australia considered applications concerning the welfare and contact arrangements for a child. The dispute involved the husband and wife, with the independent children’s lawyer playing a significant role in advocating for the child's best interests.

The court was required to determine the appropriate arrangements for the child's contact with the husband, given the circumstances presented. This included assessing the suitability of supervised contact facilities and the terms under which such contact should occur. The court also had to consider the exchange of information between the parents and relevant professional bodies, as well as the provision of school-related materials to the husband.

Brown J ordered that both parents take reasonable steps to apply for supervised contact facilities, with the independent children’s lawyer to recommend a suitable service. Upon a place becoming available, the husband was to have contact with the child for two hours on alternate weekends, with no other contact permitted unless otherwise ordered. The court also made provisions for the independent children’s lawyer to share relevant reports with the contact service and for the wife to provide information to CASA for the child's assessment and treatment. The husband was authorised to receive school reports and photo order forms at his expense, and was permitted to send small gifts and correspondence to the child. The matter was adjourned to a later date, with liberty for the parties to apply on short notice. The court noted the significant waiting times for contact services and the husband's prior receipt of school materials.