Family Dispute Resolution in Canberra
When you separate, you need to work out parenting arrangements for your children and sort out property and finances. Family Dispute Resolution (also called family mediation) gives you a safe, structured way to resolve those issues without going to court.
How our standard FDR pathway works
Most separating parents and couples follow the same simple pathway with Mediation Canberra.
First, book a free 15‑minute discovery discussion so we can understand your situation and confirm that Family Dispute Resolution is appropriate.
Each person then attends a Mediation Consultation ($350 ex GST per person, up to 90 minutes) where we explain the process and gather background information.
If mediation is suitable a half‑day or full‑day mediation is booked at fixed fees per person to help you reach parenting and/or property agreements.
Where required, we can also issue a Section 60I certificate confirming you have attempted FDR.
If you know that you want to proceed with family mediation, you can directly book a mediation consultation below.
Common Questions About Family Mediation
What is Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)?
FDR is a structured process where a mediator helps families resolve issues around parenting, property and relationships. Unlike going to court, the mediator or Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) doesn't make decisions for you and you remain in control of the outcomes. Family Dispute Resolution in Canberra must be through an accredited FDRP. You can find a register of accredited FDRPs at the Attorney-General's Department.
What's the difference between family mediation and going to court?
Family mediation allows you to create your own agreements with professional guidance, usually within weeks, at a fraction of court costs. Court proceedings can take months or years, with a judge making decisions for you. Most separating couples try mediation first—it's faster, cheaper, and gives you control over outcomes. Learn more about our mediation consultation process.
What issues can be resolved through Family Dispute Resolution?
You can discuss parenting arrangements, communications, financial matters and property division in FDR. See parenting mediation and property mediation for additional information.
Do I need a Family Dispute Resolution session before going to Court?
Yes. In most cases involving children, the Family Law Act requires parents to attempt FDR before applying to the Court for parenting orders. Read more about s60I certificates and court requirements
How quickly can I start family mediation in Canberra?
We offer same-week appointments with no waitlist. Book a free 15-minute discovery discussion to discuss your situation, and if mediation is suitable, we can schedule your mediation consultation within days, not months.
Can I get family mediation without my ex agreeing first?
Yes. Book a discovery discussion or mediation consultation to discuss your situation. We can issue a s60I certificate after assessing your circumstances, which allows you to proceed to court if your ex-partner refuses to mediate.
Do both parents need to attend family mediation?
For parenting mediations to be successful, both parents must attend. However, if one parent refuses, we can issue a s60I certificate after meeting with you, which fulfills the Family Law Act requirement before going to court. Explore our parenting mediation services
Who can attend FDR sessions (can lawyers attend)?
FDR sessions can be attended by parties in dispute and may also include lawyers or support persons (with the mediator's agreement). Children don't usually attend unless all parties agree and it's in the child's best interests. Find out about lawyer-assisted mediation
How long does an FDR session usually take?
Sessions typically last 3-4 hours but can be shorter or longer depending on complexity and progress. Multiple sessions might be needed for complex disputes. See what to expect in a mediation consultation
How much does Family Dispute Resolution in Canberra cost?
Costs vary depending on the complexity and length of the mediation. Many FDR services offer free or subsidised sessions for eligible clients. See our pricing page for cost details specific to Mediation Canberra, or book a free discovery discussion to discuss your specific situation.
Is Family Dispute Resolution confidential?
Yes. What is discussed in FDR is confidential, except in limited cases such as where there is risk of harm to a person or where the law requires disclosure. Read more about our confidential mediation process
What if we reach agreement in mediation – what happens next?
If you reach agreement the mediator can help you record the terms in a written parenting plan or summary. You will usually be encouraged to seek independent legal advice about whether to keep it as a parenting plan or apply for consent orders if you want a more formal, enforceable arrangement.
What happens if we can't reach an agreement?
The mediator will issue a s60I Certificate (see below) stating that mediation has been attempted. You can then use this certificate to apply to the Family Court if needed.
What is an s60I Certificate and when do I need one?
An s60I certificate is a document issued by an accredited family dispute resolution practitioner showing you've attempted mediation. You generally need it before filing a parenting application in the Family Court (except in urgent cases involving safety concerns). Learn everything about s60I certificates
How do I request a s60I certificate?
Contact your mediator to request the certificate. If your ex-partner refuses to participate or if mediation is unsuitable we can also issue s60I certificate but we first need to meet with you to make that assessment.
Contact Us
ADDRESS
L9/2 Phillip Law St,
Canberra ACT 2601
PHONE
02 6243 4891 (9am to 5pm) Mon to Friday