Phuona and Nghiem and Anor

The proceedings before Benjamin J involved an application by Mr Phuona concerning a de facto relationship, brought under the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth). The dispute, as indicated by the orders made, concerned the jurisdiction of the court to hear Mr Phuona's application.

The primary legal issue before the court was whether it possessed jurisdiction to entertain the de facto relationship proceedings initiated by Mr Phuona. The court was also required to determine the fate of all other outstanding applications within the proceedings.

Benjamin J dismissed Mr Phuona's application, thereby finding that the court lacked jurisdiction to proceed with the de facto relationship claim. Consequently, all other extant applications were also dismissed, with the exception of any potential applications for costs. The court further ordered that subpoenaed documents be returned and exhibits be restored to their respective tenderers. Costs applications were to be made in accordance with the *Family Law Rules 2004*, and it was certified that engaging counsel to attend was reasonable.