SHANNON & JOLES

In the matter of *Shannon & Joles*, Judge Altobelli of the Family Court of Australia considered parenting orders concerning two children. The proceedings involved allegations made by the mother regarding the father's mental health, family violence, and drug and alcohol abuse. The central dispute revolved around the extent of the father's involvement in the children's lives, given the alleged risks.

The court was required to determine whether any relationship with the father would benefit the children, and conversely, whether there was an evident risk of harm to the children if contact were to occur. The court also had to consider the appropriate orders to ensure the children's safety and welfare, including the allocation of parental responsibility and the nature of any contact arrangements.

Judge Altobelli reasoned that the allegations concerning the father's conduct were substantiated and that there was no demonstrable benefit to the children in maintaining a relationship with him. The court found that a significant risk of harm to the children was evident. Consequently, the court made orders granting the mother sole parental responsibility for long-term and day-to-day decisions concerning the children, and that the children live with the mother. Crucially, the court ordered that the father spend no time with the children and imposed significant injunctive restraints on the father to protect the children and the mother's family. The orders also addressed communication, passport applications, and the provision of counselling and support services for both parents.