Naparus and Frankham

In *Naparus and Frankham*, heard by Judge Mercuri, the dispute concerned interim parenting orders for a child born in 2015. The proceedings involved the applicant, the respondent, and an Independent Children’s Lawyer, with the court also considering the welfare of the child.

The court was required to determine a range of issues relating to the child's best interests, including residence, relocation, and the allocation of parental responsibility. Specifically, the court needed to consider the application of sections 60CC, 61DA, and 65DAA of the *Family Law Act 1975*, and make orders regarding the child's time with each parent, communication between the parties, and the preparation of a family report. The court also addressed the need for psychiatric assessments of the parties and the potential for supervised changeovers.

The court's reasoning and the principles applied are reflected in the detailed orders made. These included an adjournment for a final hearing, directions for the filing of affidavits and outlines of case, and the discharge of previous parenting orders. Crucially, the court made interim parenting orders by consent, which stipulated that the child live with the mother, with the paternal grandmother facilitating changeovers. The orders also imposed significant restraints on both parents regarding their conduct in the child's presence, their communication about the proceedings, and substance use. Furthermore, the father was restrained from allowing the child contact with his brother. The court also ordered a family report to be prepared and directed that both parents undergo psychiatric assessments.