Family Dispute Resolution Gold Coast

Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) can assist parents in resolving a range of parenting matters, such as where children live, how much time they spend with each parent, and how decisions are made about their care. It can also cover property and financial matters after separation, helping parties reach an agreement without going to court.

FDR may not be suitable in cases involving domestic and family violence, safety concerns, or where one party is unwilling or unable to engage meaningfully. If a Family Dispute Resolution practitioner assesses that a case isn’t appropriate, they may issue a certificate under the Family Law Act to allow parties to proceed to court.

Agreements reached in FDR are not automatically legally binding. However, parties can formalise their agreement by applying for consent orders through the Family Court, creating a parenting plan, or entering into a financial agreement. A mediator will explain the available options so that parents understand how to give effect to their agreement legally.

FDR is a form of family mediation focused on resolving issues after separation, especially in relation to children and parenting. It must be conducted by an accredited FDR practitioner under the Family Law Act and includes the option of a certificate of attendance if matters can’t be resolved.

In FDR, the parties – usually the parents or a separated couple – make the decisions. The mediator does not decide the outcome or impose solutions. Instead, they assist by guiding the conversation, managing conflict and helping both parties explore options and reach agreements that consider the best interests of the children.

Costs vary depending on the service provider. Private FDR practitioners charge fees, which may range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand per session, depending on the amount of time required. An intake fee is generally also required. Some community organisations offer free or low-cost FDR based on income. Please book a free chat to find out more about our costs, which are very reasonable and a lot less costly than going to court.

Before mediation, think about the issues you want to discuss, your children’s needs, your financial matters and any possible solutions. Collect relevant information, such as school schedules, areas for discussion or financial documents. Consider your goals, what’s most important to you, and where you’re willing to compromise. The mediator will guide you through the process on the day, and you can often work with them beforehand to prepare, ensuring you get the most out of your session.

If no agreement is reached, the FDR practitioner may issue a certificate confirming that FDR was attempted. This certificate is usually required before applying to the court for parenting orders. You can still explore other pathways, such as legal advice or court processes, to resolve the remaining issues.