Thexton and Barrie and Anor

This matter concerned an application by the mother of a child, X, born in 2017, regarding the child's living arrangements. The paternal grandmother, Ms Barrie, was also a party to the proceedings. The dispute centred on whether the child should continue to reside with the paternal grandmother or be transitioned into the mother's care, and if not, what ongoing arrangements should be made for the child to spend time with the mother.

The court was required to determine interim orders concerning the child's residence, relocation, and contact with both parents. Specifically, the court had to consider the child's placement on a Watch List, the paternal grandmother's proposed relocation of the child to New Zealand, and the arrangements for the child to spend time with the mother, including communication methods. Furthermore, the court needed to direct the preparation of a Family Report to assist in resolving the dispute over the child's long-term care and contact arrangements.

In its interim orders, the court directed that the child live with the paternal grandmother and permitted her to relocate the child to New Zealand. The Australian Federal Police were ordered to remove the child's name from the Watch List. The court made provision for the child to spend time with the mother as agreed between the parties, noting the paternal grandmother's agreement to bring the child to Australia on occasions and the need for productive Facetime communication, despite potential difficulties. The court also ordered the parties and the child to attend a family consultant for a Family Report, with specific directions regarding document inspection and the report's release date. The matter was adjourned for further consideration.