Mediation Costs in Canberra: A Guide for Separating Couples

A common question from couples in Canberra considering separation is, "How much does mediation cost?" You may be surprised to learn that working with an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) as a mediator is usually far more affordable and effective than going straight to a lawyer or to court. It also delivers better outcomes because the process is confidential, and you maintain control over any final decisions.

Mediation Services Available in Canberra and Surrounding Regions

Typical family dispute resolution costs

Service type	Typical cost (per party)	What this includes
Family Relationship Centre (FRC)	Free intake then first hr free then $30 per hr (fees increase after 3hrs on a sliding scale)	Intake, mediation session and Section 60I certificate issuance
ACT Conflict Resolution Service (Canberra community sector)	$550 intake then $1,650 + for a mediation	Intake session and 4 hr mediation
Private FDR package	$850 to $1,300	Intake session and mediation of between 3 to 6 hrs. Assistance drafting a parenting plan/agreement.
Full-day private mediation	$2,000 to $4,500	More complex matters (up to 8hrs) Assistance drafting a parenting plan/agreement.
Section 60I certificate	$110 to $495	Where one party does not engage or another condition met (e.g. FDR deemed unsuitable).
Traditional court litigation (comparison)	$30,000 to $100,000+	Solicitors/barristers, hearings and disbursements.

NOTE: Fees may be reduced by some providers for concessions or for low-income families.

Factors Affecting Mediation Costs

Several factors can influence the price of mediation:

• Number and length of sessions: The more sessions you need, the higher the cost.

  
  

• The choice of provider: Community providers are generally less expensive than private FDRPs. However, choosing a community provider may limit your options for mediator selection, the actual scheduling of any mediation and the wait time.

  
  

• Child consultants (also called Child Inclusive Practitioners) : If you want to involve children's voices in mediation, this can add to the cost.

  
  

• The complexity of issues: Complex financial matters may require legal assistance, which can increase costs.

  
  

• Virtual vs. in-person mediation: Virtual sessions may be less expensive than in-person ones, where room hire can add to the cost.

  
  

Why Engaging an FDRP is a Better First Step Than Hiring a Lawyer

Choosing to work with an FDRP instead of a lawyer offers several advantages:

• Transparent and Affordable Fees: FDRPs typically have fixed fees or capped sessions, making costs predictable. Lawyers often bill by the hour, which can lead to unexpected expenses.

  
  

• Faster Resolution: Private FDR can often be scheduled within weeks, while court proceedings may take 18 months or longer. Some FDRPs even offer Saturday sessions for added convenience.

  
  

• Shared Costs: In mediation, costs are usually split equally between parties. In court, each party bears their own legal costs.

  
  

• Child-Inclusive Options: FDR is designed to help parents find child-centred solutions. Child consultants can help ensure children's voices are heard, something that litigation often lacks.

  
  

• Confidentiality and Control: Mediation sessions are confidential, allowing you to retain control over the outcomes. Agreements can be formalised into consent orders with minimal legal fees.

  
  

• Integrated Property and Parenting: Many private FDRPs offer bundled services for both property and parenting issues at a fixed fee, simplifying the process.

  
  

• Section 60I Certificates: Only FDRPs can quickly issue these certificates, ensuring compliance with mandatory pre-action procedures.

  
  

• Peace of Mind: Mediation keeps you out of the adversarial courtroom environment, reducing stress and anxiety.

  
  

Five Tips to Minimise Mediation Costs

1. Narrow the Agenda: Focus on your top issues for resolution. Address urgent parenting matters first, then schedule property mediation later if necessary. Some private FDRPs may offer discounts for subsequent matters.

   
   

2. Prepare in Advance: Gather and share parenting proposals or financial documents before your session. Drafting plans or spreadsheets can reduce the time needed with an FDRP or lawyer.

   
   

3. Consider Virtual Mediation: Opting for virtual sessions can help you avoid room hire fees and travel costs.

   
   

4. Check for Concessions and Subsidies: Community agencies may waive or reduce fees for low-income families or health-card holders.

   
   

5. Ask About Drafting Inclusions: Some services include agreement drafting in their fees, while others charge extra for this service.

   
   

When You Might Still Need a Lawyer

There are situations where engaging a lawyer is advisable:

• Binding Financial Agreements: If you need to create legally binding agreements in property matters or draft court orders after mediation.

• Urgent Issues: In cases involving child recovery, family violence injunctions, or complex family trust structures.

• Detailed Legal Advice: If you require specific legal guidance during mediation, you might consider 'lawyer-assisted FDR,' where each party has a lawyer present. However, this will increase costs.

  
  

Conclusion

Family Dispute Resolution offers a faster, more affordable, and amicable way to resolve parenting and property issues. Accredited FDR practitioners keep you in control and provide a confidential environment to help you create solutions tailored to your situation. For separating parents with children, seeing an FDRP first is not just much cheaper, it’s more likely to preserve co-parenting relationships for the long term.

If you want to explore your options or get a quote contact us today?

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediation Costs in Canberra

How much does mediation cost for divorce in Canberra?

Private mediation typically costs between $850 and $2,000 for intake and a 3-6 hour session, while community services like Family Relationship Centres offer sliding scales from free to $30/hour.

What's the cheapest mediation service in Canberra?

Family Relationship Centres provide the most affordable option, with free intake and the first hour free, followed by $30/hour. However, there may be lengthy waiting periods, and you might not be able to choose the date and time of mediation.

Is mediation cheaper than lawyers in ACT?

Yes, mediation from a private FDRP costs between $850 and $4,500 total, while court litigation averages $30,000 to $100,000+, making mediation up to 97% cheaper.