Nielsen & Springer (No. 3)

In the matter of *Nielsen & Springer (No. 3)*, Baumann J of the Family Court of Australia made orders concerning the parenting arrangements for three children following the mother's unilateral relocation interstate with them. The proceedings were given an early trial date, and the court was asked to make interim orders for the children to spend time with their father during school holidays, subject to COVID-19 restrictions.

The court was required to determine the specific arrangements for the children to spend time with their father during the October 2021 school holidays, including the location, changeover times, and communication protocols with the mother. Additionally, the court needed to set a timetable for the final hearing, including deadlines for the filing and service of evidence, case outlines, and any intention to cross-examine a family report writer. The court also had to consider the practical implications of COVID-19 travel restrictions on the proposed arrangements.

Baumann J ordered that the children spend time with their father in BB City from 16 October 2021 to 23 October 2021, with specific conditions regarding the father providing the location, agreed changeover times at a McDonalds restaurant, and the father facilitating the children's communication with the mother. A crucial condition was that both parents confirm by email that COVID-19 travel restrictions in South Australia, New South Wales, and Queensland would not impede the arrangements, with quarantine requirements constituting a practical impediment. The proceedings were scheduled for a final hearing of not more than three days commencing on 22 November 2021 in Brisbane, with detailed directions for the filing of evidence and case outlines. A case management hearing was also scheduled to ascertain whether the final hearing should proceed via Microsoft Teams and to determine witness appearances.