Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) & Family Mediation

At Mediation for Families™, we provide professional Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) — a structured and supportive process designed to help families in conflict communicate effectively, make informed decisions, and reach lasting agreements.
This process is also known as family mediation, and it offers a private, practical, and cost-effective alternative to going to court.

What Is Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)?

Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is a confidential mediation process that helps separated or divorcing couples resolve issues about parenting, property, or finances.
With the guidance of an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP), both parties are supported to talk about what’s important, identify the key issues in dispute, and work toward mutually acceptable solutions.

FDR helps families find clarity, rebuild communication, and make child-focused decisions that support long-term stability.

Is Family Dispute Resolution Mandatory?

In most cases under Australian family law, Family Dispute Resolution is required before you can apply to the court for parenting orders.
You must make a genuine effort to resolve your dispute through FDR before filing in court.

There are exemptions — such as cases involving family violence, child abuse, or urgent matters — which are considered on a case-by-case basis.

If you intend to apply for a parenting order, you’ll need a Section 60I Certificate from an accredited FDR Practitioner, confirming that you attempted mediation in good faith.

How Our Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners Can Help

Our qualified Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners (FDRPs) are skilled in managing conflict and guiding discussions toward fair and sustainable outcomes.
They support families to:

• Identify and clarify the key issues requiring resolution

• Provide a safe, respectful environment for both parties to be heard

• Share relevant information to help parties make informed decisions

• Offer professional referrals where appropriate

• Explore options and test possible solutions

• Document agreed outcomes clearly and accurately

Our goal is to help families reach agreements that are practical, lasting, and in the best interests of everyone involved — especially the children.

Benefits of Family Dispute Resolution

Choosing family mediation through FDR offers numerous advantages compared to court proceedings:

• Saves time and money

• Encourages cooperation and better communication between parents

• Provides a structured process for resolving parenting and property issues

• Allows greater control over the outcome

• Reduces stress and emotional strain

• Leads to more sustainable, self-determined agreements

FDR is not about winning or losing — it’s about creating workable, respectful solutions for the future.

Online & Telephone Family Mediation

Mediation for Families™ also offers flexible online and telephone Family Dispute Resolution services.
These options allow families to resolve disputes from the comfort and safety of their own environment — no travel, parking, or room hire costs required.

Why Choose Online or Telephone FDR?

• Reduces anxiety, fear, and emotional stress

• Keeps parties safely separated during the process

• Mediate from anywhere — convenient and accessible

• Avoid traffic, travel time, and venue expenses

• Real-time preparation of digital agreements

• Lower overheads mean more affordable fees

• Enables additional sessions when needed

Our online mediation platform is secure, efficient, and tailored to your family’s needs.

Affordable Family Mediation Fees

We believe that quality Family Dispute Resolution should be accessible to everyone.
Our fees are among the most competitive in the industry — transparent, fair, and cost-effective.
If you have any questions, our team is happy to help.

How to Start Your Family Dispute Resolution Process

Getting started with family mediation is quick and simple:

1. Book a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our accredited FDR Practitioners.

2. Complete your Intake & Assessment, with a senior practitioner.

3. We will then invite the other party to complete their intake process.

4. If FDR is not suitable, you will receive a link to order a Section 60I Certificate.

5. If suitable, both parties will receive a link to book your mediation session.

Find Peace of Mind Through Family Mediation

At Mediation for Families™, our focus is on helping families communicate, cooperate, and create lasting agreements through Family Dispute Resolution.
Avoid the cost and conflict of court proceedings — and take the first step toward resolution today.

Contact us to start your family mediation process and move forward with clarity and confidence.