Family Dispute Resolution
Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is a structured mediation process where an independent, trained practitioner helps separating couples work through parenting and/or property issues themselves, rather than having a judge decide for them. The mediator doesn't take sides or hand down a decision — their role is to help both people communicate, identify what actually matters to each of them, and reach an agreement that works for their specific circumstances.
For parenting matters, attempting FDR isn't just encouraged, it's generally a legal requirement: the Family Law Act expects court to be a last resort, used only once genuine efforts to resolve things privately have failed, and in most cases you can't even file a parenting application without a Section 60I Certificate confirming you've tried (limited exceptions apply, such as family violence, urgency, or a risk to a child). While there's no equivalent certificate for property and financial disputes, the same expectation applies — the court wants to see genuine, good-faith attempts at resolution before parties turn to litigation.
Mediation is almost always faster, cheaper, and considerably less stressful than a court process, and because both people are actively involved in shaping the outcome rather than having one imposed on them, agreements reached this way tend to last longer and produce less ongoing conflict — something particularly valuable when children are involved and both parties will need to keep communicating for years to come. It's also private and flexible, letting you focus on the specific issues that matter to your family rather than being bound by a rigid court timetable.
Importantly, FDR isn't only a box to tick before filing at court — it stands on its own as a practical option for anyone who wants to sort out a parenting arrangement or a property split without ever intending to go near a courtroom. If you and your former partner are on reasonably good terms and just need help working through a handful of outstanding issues, mediation offers a straightforward, guided way to reach a formal, workable agreement without the cost, time, or adversarial nature of a court application.
Client Intake Pre-Mediation
Before any joint mediation session, we hold a confidential intake appointment individually with each party — never together. This is a chance for us to understand what's important to you, and explain how the mediation process works and what to expect.We also discuss any safety concerns, so we can decide whether mediation is appropriate. It gives you the opportunity to ask questions and get a feel for the process before committing to a joint session.
$ 65 per Person
Parenting Mediation
We offer a two hour parenting mediation on-line with our in-house mediator. Book your parenting mediation by emailing admin@flcaustralia.com.au and we shall get back to you with available dates. We can also reach out to the other party and invite them to mediate with you.
Mediation allows you to be creative with your parenting arrangements and work in other commitments such as work or travel, while still giving the children significant time with both parents.
$280 Per Person
Property Mediation
Property Mediation requires disclosure preparation in order to meet the Family Court's 'fair and equitable' rule. At your intake appointment you will be give a list of which items require full disclosure. Once these are gathered, you may book your property mediation where your Mediator will help you negotiate using your financials and joint balance sheets.
You will also be provided with information on how the Family Court divides property and how to make your agreement legally binding.