Morgan and Jones

In the matter of *Morgan and Jones*, Bell J considered an application concerning the living arrangements and contact arrangements for a child, B, born in June 2002. The dispute centred on the welfare of the child and the appropriate orders to be made regarding parental responsibility and contact.

The court was required to determine the primary residence of the child, the nature and extent of contact the mother would have with the child, and the ongoing involvement of a mental health case worker and an Independent Children’s Lawyer. Additionally, the court needed to establish communication protocols between the parents regarding the child's welfare and education, and to set a date for a further mention of the proceedings.

Bell J ordered that the child, B, shall live with the Father. The Mother was granted supervised contact with the child for two hours per fortnight at a designated contact centre. The Father was directed to immediately notify the Mother of any significant accident, illness, hospitalisation, or medical emergency concerning the child, and to keep the Mother informed about the child's welfare and education. Both parties were ordered to exchange and update their contact details within 48 hours of any change, for the sole purpose of communication regarding the child. Ms O was appointed as the mental health case worker for the Mother under section 65L(1)(b) of the *Family Law Act 1975*, with a requirement to provide a further report to the court within six months on the Mother's mental health status and treatment. The appointment of the Independent Children’s Lawyer was to continue. The matter was adjourned for mention on 18th June 2010.