If a lawyer has told you that you need to attempt Family Dispute Resolution before you can apply to court, this is the process they mean. We help separated parents work through parenting arrangements, communication and child-focused decisions in a structured, neutral and confidential environment.
Book a Confidential ConsultationFamily Dispute Resolution (FDR) is designed for separated or divorcing parents who need support to discuss arrangements for their children. It is suitable for parents at any stage of separation, including those who have just separated, those reviewing existing arrangements, or those who have tried to resolve matters directly but have reached an impasse.
Our Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners are registered with the Attorney-General's Department, which is what authorises them to issue a section 60I certificate. They provide a safe, structured space where both parents are heard, children's interests remain central and practical options can be explored together.
All sessions are conducted in English as standard. For families who prefer it, sessions are also available in Dari, Farsi, Tajiki and Hazaragi, so language is never a barrier to accessing FDR.
Family Dispute Resolution is a legally recognised process under the Family Law Act. In most parenting disputes, a genuine attempt at FDR is required before an application can be made to the Family Court.
Our practitioners are on the Attorney-General's Department register, so we can issue a section 60I certificate where one is required for your matter.
A certificate does not depend on the two of you reaching agreement. It records that the process was attempted, so it still has a purpose if the other parent will not take part or if the matter is not resolved in the session.
Ask us about your situationFDR is a legally recognised process under the Family Law Act. In most parenting disputes, a genuine attempt at FDR is required before an application can be made to the Family Court. More importantly, FDR often produces better outcomes than litigation, because both parents have been part of reaching the agreement, they are more likely to follow through on it.
The process is confidential, child-focused and designed to reduce ongoing conflict. It is also considerably less costly and stressful than court proceedings.
You contact us to briefly discuss your situation. We explain how FDR works and whether it may be suitable for your circumstances.
We speak with each parent separately to understand their perspective, assess the suitability of the process and explain what to expect in the session.
A structured, facilitated session where both parents can discuss parenting matters in a calm environment. The mediator keeps the focus on practical, child-centred outcomes.
If an agreement is reached, it can be documented. Where a section 60I certificate is required for court, we issue it. We can advise on appropriate next steps.
Get in touch for a confidential, no-obligation conversation about your situation.
Tell us what is happening with the parenting arrangements and we will call you back within one business day. If you need a section 60I certificate, say so and we will explain how that works.