Perrett and Perrett (No.2)

This matter concerned interim parenting orders made by Judge Mead in the Federal Circuit Court of Australia. The proceedings involved the parents, identified as the father and the mother, and concerned the living arrangements for their two children, X and Y. The court was required to make orders regarding the children's time with each parent during an adjournment period and to provide directions for the future conduct of the proceedings.

The primary legal issues before the court were the interim living arrangements for the children, X and Y, during the period of adjournment, and the terms of handover between the parents. Additionally, the court was required to consider the preparation of a report pursuant to section 62(G)(2) of the *Family Law Act 1975* concerning the best interests of the children, specifically regarding their time with each parent. The court also needed to make directions for the attendance of the parties and children at appointments for the preparation of this report and to set a date for further directions.

In determining the interim living arrangements, the court made detailed orders specifying the periods X and Y would spend with the father and the mother, including specific days and times, and provisions for alternate weeks. The court also stipulated the method of handovers, differentiating between those occurring at school and those occurring outside of school hours. Crucially, the court ordered the preparation of a report by Ms A, focusing on the children's best interests and their interaction with each parent, with particular regard to subpoenaed material. The court also directed the parties and children to attend appointments with Ms A and set a deadline for the report's availability. The court further made provisions for the dissemination of the report, subject to certain conditions and noting the evidentiary status of such reports and the confidentiality provisions under section 121 of the *Family Law Act 1975*.