Nolan and Klein

In the matter of *Nolan and Klein*, Dawe J considered interim parenting orders concerning two children, P and E. The dispute involved allegations of neglect, drug abuse, and risk of sexual abuse, leading to significant concerns for the children's welfare.

The court was required to determine the immediate living arrangements for the children, the terms of contact between the children and each parent, and the necessity of external intervention and reporting. Key issues included the children's safety, the appropriateness of contact with specific individuals, and the need for independent representation for the children.

Dawe J made detailed interim orders. The children were to live with the father during the adjournment, and the father was restrained from allowing them to associate with named individuals. The father was also ordered to reside at his current address and ensure the children continued their schooling. The mother was granted specific alternate weekend contact, with collection and return arrangements at a police station. Crucially, the court ordered independent representation for the children under section 68L of the *Family Law Act 1975* and invited intervention by the Minister for the Department for Families and Communities – Families SA under section 91B. Families SA was requested to prepare a report addressing the parties' allegations and the children's circumstances, with the matter adjourned for further consideration.