MICHAELS & TALBOT

In *Michaels & Talbot*, Foster J considered final parenting orders in circumstances involving sibling sexual abuse. The dispute arose following a significant change in the children's circumstances, necessitating a review of previous final orders made by consent. The court's primary focus was on making appropriate protective orders in the best interests of the children.

The legal issues before the court included determining the appropriate allocation of parental responsibility and living arrangements for the two children, C Talbot and K Talbot. Crucially, the court was required to consider and implement protective measures to prevent further harm, specifically in light of the sibling sexual abuse. This involved assessing the level of contact permissible between the siblings and the responsibilities of each parent in ensuring the children's safety.

Foster J reasoned that the best interests of the children necessitated a separation of the siblings and the imposition of strict conditions on any contact between them. The court applied the paramount principle of the best interests of the child, which guided the determination of all orders. The reasoning led to orders granting each parent sole parental responsibility for one child, with specific living arrangements and prohibitions on unsupervised contact between the siblings. The court also made orders regarding communication, information sharing, and conduct between the parents to safeguard the children.