WALLISHAM & WALLISHAM

In the matter of *Wallisham & Wallisham*, heard before Barry J of the Family Court of Australia, the proceedings concerned the welfare of two children, D and R. The specific nature of the dispute between the parties is not detailed, but the court's orders indicate a significant focus on the children's well-being.

The central legal issue before the court was the need to ensure the welfare of the children. This required the court to consider whether to seek the intervention of the Director-General of the Department of Communities (Child Safety Services) in the ongoing proceedings. The court also needed to determine the process for obtaining information relevant to this decision, including the preparation and provision of a report.

Barry J exercised the court's power under section 91B of the *Family Law Act 1975* to request the intervention of the Director-General. This decision was made in light of concerns for the welfare of the children. To facilitate the Director-General's assessment, the court ordered that a report be prepared by the Department of Communities (Child Safety) by a specified date. The court further directed that the Registry Manager allow authorised personnel from the Department to inspect and copy relevant court file materials and subpoenaed documents to assist in their consideration of the intervention request. The proceedings were adjourned to allow for these steps to be completed.