Does Mediation Canberra offer free consultations?

We offer a free initial consultation for all enquiries — whether you're considering family mediation, business mediation, workplace conflict resolution, or leadership coaching. This is a no-obligation introductory call to discuss your situation and understand your options.

Does Mediation Canberra offer leadership coaching in Canberra?

We offer leadership and conflict coaching for individuals and managers in Canberra and the ACT. Coaching is suited to leaders managing conflict at work, teams navigating difficult dynamics, or individuals who want structured support before or instead of a formal process. A free initial consultation is available.

Does Mediation Canberra offer management or executive coaching in Canberra?

We offer management and executive coaching for leaders and professionals in Canberra and the ACT. Coaching is suited to managers navigating team conflict, executives working through organisational change, and leaders who want to strengthen their conflict resolution skills. A free initial consultation is available.

Can I get a free consultation for business mediation in Canberra?

We offer a free initial consultation for business and commercial mediation in Canberra. Whether you're dealing with a partnership dispute, a commercial disagreement, or a business relationship that has broken down, the consultation is a no-obligation call to discuss your situation and understand your options.

What is a Section 60I Certificate? A Guide for Separated Parents

James Judge
May 2
2 min read

Updated: May 7

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/009f1b_c82a92cae1d34e3f89ed16188e618841/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

If you're separating and want to file a parenting application in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, you will usually need a section 60I certificate (or a recognised exemption) before a judge will hear your case.

Book Free 15-Minute Consultation

What is a Section 60I certificate?

A Section 60I certificate is issued by an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) confirming that you have attempted, or made a genuine effort to attempt, family dispute resolution before filing in court. The requirement is set out in section 60I of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth).

Why does it exist?

The requirement was introduced to reduce unnecessary litigation. Courts are slow and expensive, and many parenting disputes can be resolved (or at least narrowed) through a structured mediation process. The certificate requirement creates a genuine gatekeeping step: the law asks you to try before you litigate.

When do you need one?

You need one if you intend to file an application in the Court. There are exemptions, including if there are genuine safety concerns, the matter is urgent, or one party is unable to participate.

What does the certificate say?

The certificate is issued in one of several forms, depending on what happened during the FDR process. It may confirm that both parties attended and made a genuine effort, that one party refused to attend, or that the FDRP assessed that the process was not appropriate in the circumstances. The type of certificate issued can affect how a court views the matter.

How do you get one in Canberra?

James Judge at Mediation Canberra is an accredited FDRP who can provide section 60I certificates for separated or separating parents across Canberra and the surrounding region. In most cases, your certificate can be issued within a week of your first appointment or within 48 hours if the other party declines to participate.

For more detail on how the process works, visit our Section 60I Certificates page.