Family Dispute Resolution

What is Family Dispute Resolution? Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is a structured, impartial process designed to help families resolve disputes related to children and property without needing to go to court. The process is safe, child-focused, and solution-oriented, providing a neutral environment for families to communicate, manage conflict, and work toward mutually acceptable agreements.

FDR Services assists families to:

Make informed parenting arrangements and decisions focused on the best interests of children
Resolve property and financial matters during separation
Improve communication and manage conflict in a structured and neutral setting

The service includes thorough screening, safety assessments, and considerations of family violence or power imbalances. If agreements cannot be reached, relevant certificates under Australian family law can be issued to support further legal processes.

Our practitioners are accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners (FDRPs) under the Family Law (Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners) Regulations 2025.

We are committed to:

Neutrality and independence

Professional, ethical mediation

Supporting safe and positive outcomes for children

You can verify our accreditation via the Family Dispute Resolution Register.

Before Your FDR Session

To help you prepare, we provide information about:

Our Role: We facilitate discussions, but do not provide legal advice unless separately qualified.

Confidentiality & Privacy

FDR is a confidential process protected under the Family Law Act 1975. Exceptions include:

Risk of harm to children or others

Legal obligations to report certain matters

Safety & Mandatory Reporting

Your safety and the safety of children is our priority. We adhere to legal obligations including:

Screening for family violence and child abuse

Mandatory reporting of child safety concerns

Referrals to specialist services when needed

Section 60I Certificates: Upon completion, a certificate may be issued to allow court applications for parenting orders.

Fees & Transparency

We believe in clear and upfront fees.

Our fees: Intake $250 per party

FDR session $2100 ($1050 per party)

Cancellation / no-show: $500 if within 48 hours of booked appointment.

All fees are discussed and agreed before your first session.

Complaints & Feedback

We are committed to professional, high-quality services. If you have a concern:

Lodge a complaint with our approved complaints body as required by FDR Regulations 2025

Helpful Resources

Family Dispute Resolution | Attorney-General's Department

Home | Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia

Home

Topics to Consider Before Mediation

Preparing for mediation helps you:

Communicate clearly

Focus on solutions

Protect the best interests of your children

Before your FDR session, consider the following areas:

1. Your Goals

What outcomes are most important to you?

What issues are non-negotiable, and where could you be flexible?

Think about long-term solutions, not just immediate needs.

2. Parenting Arrangements

For parents, consider:

Who the children will live with and for how long (residency arrangements)

How decisions about education, health, and religion will be made (shared decision-making)

How time will be divided between parents (visitation or parenting time)

How to handle holidays, school breaks, and special occasions

Focus on the children’s best interests rather than adult convenience or emotions.

3. Communication

How will you communicate respectfully with your co-parent?

How will you share updates about children’s wellbeing?

Consider using shared calendars, apps, or communication guidelines.

4. Financial Considerations (if relevant)

Child support and basic living costs

Division of joint expenses for children

Be realistic and prepared to discuss financial information openly

5. Safety and Wellbeing

Consider any family violence or safety concerns

Think about what arrangements would feel safe for you and your children

If safety is a concern, you may need alternative arrangements or an exemption from FDR

Your mediator will screen for safety before proceeding.

6. Information & Documentation

Bring any relevant documents (school reports, schedules, medical info) if helpful

Think about questions or points you want clarified during the session

7. Potential Agreements

Consider possible compromises or creative solutions

Think about what would make a workable plan for everyone

Prioritize solutions that focus on children’s best interests

8. Emotions & Mindset

Be ready to listen, not just speak

Focus on problem-solving, not blame

Practice staying calm and respectful even when discussing difficult topics

9. Questions for Your Mediator

Ask about the process, confidentiality, or Section 60I Certificates

Clarify any legal obligations or information you don’t understand

Tip for Clients:

Writing down your thoughts, goals, and questions before mediation often makes the session more productive and reduces stress. Bring your notes with you, and remember that mediation is about finding solutions, not winning arguments.