Overview
- The Australian Embassy representative met the three minors and their mother at the protected residence in Vasto, joining the court‑appointed guardian, special curator, legal team and the regional children’s rights guarantor.
- The guardian said a brief extension is being sought to complete assessments centered on Italy’s compulsory schooling requirements.
- The Juvenile Court of L’Aquila has not yet issued a decision following the tense 6 December hearing, and an appeal ruling at the Court of Appeal is scheduled for 16 December.
- Local officials say the children are registered Australian citizens and, if the mother returns to Australia, custody could be considered for their aunt Rachael, an educator and psychologist.
- The mother has voiced a desire to repatriate and sent an audio message asserting compliance with court requests, while the children remain in the facility since 20 November and the father has visited as he awaits the appeal date.