Ravena & Ravena

This matter concerned an application by Mr Ravena (the applicant father) against Ms Ravena (the respondent mother) concerning their children, X and Y. The proceedings were before Young J in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

The court was required to determine interim arrangements for the children's time with the father, including specific dates and times for visits and telephone contact. Additionally, the court needed to address the production of documents from the Department for Child Protection and the South Australian Police Department concerning abuse allegations and family violence, and to consider the appointment of an Independent Children's Lawyer.

Young J made orders by consent regarding the father's interim time with the children, specifying dates for face-to-face contact in Melbourne and regular telephone communication. The court also ordered that an affidavit filed by the mother be refiled in compliance with court rules regarding font size. Crucially, the court exercised its powers under section 69ZW of the *Family Law Act 1975* to compel the Department for Child Protection and the South Australian Police Department to provide specific documents and information relating to any notifications, assessments, investigations, and outcomes concerning abuse allegations or family violence involving the parties or the children. Furthermore, an Independent Children's Lawyer was appointed pursuant to section 68L of the *Family Law Act 1975* to represent the children's interests. The parties were also ordered to enrol in children's contact services, with reports to be obtained at their joint expense. The interim hearing was adjourned part-heard.