Vukoja and Vukoja (No 2)

In the matter of *Vukoja and Vukoja (No 2)*, Foster J of the Family Court of Australia considered a dispute between the mother, Ms Vukoja, and the father, Mr Vukoja, concerning the upbringing and welfare of their three children. The proceedings involved applications for orders relating to parental responsibility, living arrangements for the children, and protective measures for the mother and children.

The central legal issues before the court were: (1) who should have sole parental responsibility for the children; (2) with whom the children should live; and (3) whether protective orders should be made against the father to ensure the safety and well-being of the mother and children. The court was required to consider the best interests of the children in determining parental responsibility and living arrangements, and to assess the need for restraining orders under section 68B of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth) to protect the family members.

Foster J reasoned that it was in the best interests of the children for the mother to have sole parental responsibility and for them to live with her. The court also found it necessary to make protective orders against the father, restraining him from approaching or interfering with specific properties and educational/care facilities, and prohibiting him from causing or threatening bodily harm, harassing, molesting, or stalking the mother or the children. These orders were made pursuant to section 68B of the Act for the personal protection of the mother and children, with powers of arrest under section 68C of the Act applying.