Emergency Numbers

*If you are in danger you should call 000 immediately (Australian emergency number) or 131 444 for Police Attendance. 

Answer

Mediation (or Family Dispute Resolution) is a process facilitated by a Mediator or Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP), who is an independent, impartial person who assists separated or divorced couples to resolve disputes related to their separation - including children and property.

Answer

The mediation process guides the participants in clarifying their issues, understanding their origins and the differing perspectives of each party, so that viable options for reaching a mutually agreeable solution can be identified.

The process is also child focussed – meaning that parents should focus on arrangements that are in the best interest of their children.

The FDRP:

- encourages involvement by both parents in the children's lives after separation

- provides psychoeducation to help separated parents understand the source of their disputes

- helps them improve their communication skills 

- seeks to ensure protection of children from violence and abuse, and

- helps to create a healthy emotional environment (free of high parental conflict, violence or seriously dysfunctional behaviours) in which their children feel safe and have the opportunity to thrive.

- A parenting plan will then be prepared to document the agreed arrangements. (Separation and/or financial agreements and lodgement of the arrangements with the Family Court as Consent Orders can occur if requested). 

If a financial agreement is prepared, it is recommended that the parties seek independent legal advice about the effects of the agreement on their rights and the advantages and disadvantages of entering into such an agreement at the time the advice is provided. 

Answer

This will depend on the complexity of your situation. However, on average, you could arrive at a mutually agreed plan in one or two sessions. There is always a discussion with both parties before the mediation session, and at this session we can discuss with you what you need to do to be as prepared as possible. 

Answer

Mediation (two parties, includes parents, extended family/carers)

• - First mediation session (up to 3 hours including pre-mediation discussions with each party, preparation of a basic Parenting Plan outlining the agreeed arrangements) starting from $680 ($550 concession) - shared between the parties. 
• - Subsequent mediation sessiions: starting from $580 ($450 concession) - shared between the parties. 
• - Preparation of Separation, Financial Agreement or Consent Orders starting at $790 ($650 concession) - depending on complexity - shared between the parties. 

Counselling (individual, couple, family, teens)

• - Single session (1 hour)  - $165 (concession from $80)
• - Package of three (3) sessions $390
• - Package of five (5) sessions $590
• - Package of ten (10) sessions $1100
• *Concessions apply to Health Care Card holders