RAITHBY & MOXHAM

In the Federal Circuit Court of Australia, Judge Howard considered parenting orders concerning a child born in 2015. The dispute arose from the father's repeated unilateral actions in ceasing the child's time with the mother. The court was required to determine interim parenting arrangements that would best serve the child's interests, considering the potential risks involved and the proximity of the parties' residences.

The court's reasoning focused on establishing a stable interim parenting schedule while further investigations were conducted. To address the complexities of the case, the court ordered the appointment of an Independent Children's Lawyer to represent the child's interests and directed the preparation of a Family Report. The court also mandated attendance at a Child Dispute Conference with a Family Consultant to explore issues affecting the child, relevant factors under section 60CC of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), and potential co-parenting programs.

The court made interim orders for the child to spend time with both parents on a week-about basis, with specific arrangements for changeovers at a contact centre. Additionally, the child was to have a weekly FaceTime call with the non-resident parent. The court also ordered the father to pay the applicant's costs fixed at $5,789 and discharged previous orders made on 30 March 2020. The matter was adjourned for a mention on 3 August 2020, at which time the court indicated it might make further orders based on the Family Report or expert opinion.