Family dispute resolution

Separating can feel overwhelming, especially when you are facing the prospect of a legal battle over care arrangements for children and property disputes. However, there is a better way to manage this challenging time with Conflict Resolution Service.

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Why choose mediation?

Our accredited mediators guide separating couples towards mutually beneficial agreements, particularly concerning care arrangements for children and property settlements. By choosing mediation, you can avoid courtroom drama, escalating lawyer fees, and achieve a smoother separation, saving you time, money, and stress.

Settling family disputes

If you’re facing separation and the complexities that come with it, Conflict Resolution Service can help. Our mediators are equipped to handle a wide range of family disputes, ensuring that you achieve a resolution that is both fair and sustainable.

Contact CRS staff to discuss your situation and determine if mediation is the best option for you. The cost of mediation services will depend on the type and extent of the service required, with quotes provided in most cases.

By choosing mediation, you can navigate your separation more smoothly, protect your relationships, and focus on building a positive future for your family.

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About our mediators

Our mediators are accredited by the Attorney General’s Department as Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners and therefore, have the necessary expertise and qualifications to handle sensitive family disputes and guide you towards practical and fair resolutions.

Legal requirements

The Family Law Act (1975) requires separating couples to attempt Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) before applying to the courts for a Parenting Order. This requirement applies to both new applications and those seeking changes to an existing Parenting Order.

Exceptions include cases involving family violence, child abuse, or situations where the matter is urgent. Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners (FDRP) are specially trained to handle family issues and are qualified to issue s60i Certificates, which are necessary to make an application to the Court.

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What topics can we cover?

Family disputes can cover a wide range of topics, such as:

Children’s Education, Health, and Welfare
Ensuring both parents agree on critical decisions affecting their children’s lives.

Contact with Children
Determining visitation schedules and access rights for separated couples or extended family members.

Financial Support for Children
Discussing child support arrangements and ensuring fair financial contributions from both parents.

Inability to Communicate
Facilitating better communication strategies between family members.

Lack of Trust
Rebuilding trust through honest and open dialogue.

Lifestyle/Environmental Differences
Addressing differences in lifestyle choices or living environments that impact the children.

Money/Debt
Resolving financial disputes and managing shared debts.

Parenting Differences
Bridging gaps in parenting styles and finding a cohesive approach.

Breakdown of Previous Agreements
Re-evaluating and modifying existing agreements that no longer work.

Property Settlement
Negotiating fair division of property and assets between separated couples.

Relationship Breakdown
Helping family members cope with the emotional aspects of a relationship breakdown.

Verbal Abuse/Swearing or Bullying
Addressing and resolving issues of verbal abuse or bullying within the family.

Benefits of mediation

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Confidentiality

All matters discussed during mediation are confidential, protecting sensitive family information from public exposure.
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Control over dispute resolution

Participants maintain control over the resolution of their dispute, leading to higher satisfaction and commitment to the outcome.
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Expert guidance

Mediators are experienced in handling family disputes and can offer valuable insights and strategies to resolve conflicts effectively.
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Cost-effective, time-efficient

Mediation is a more affordable and quicker alternative to court proceedings, allowing families to resolve their issues without excessive legal fees and prolonged legal battles.
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Practical solutions

Since the participants are directly involved in crafting the solutions, the agreements reached are often more practical and workable than court-imposed decisions.
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Diverse and experienced mediators

Our mediators come from various cultural and occupational backgrounds, bringing diverse perspectives and experiences to help resolve conflicts.

Case studies

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Parenting dispute resolution

A separated couple was in constant conflict over their children’s education and extracurricular activities. Through mediation, they were able to create a balanced schedule that satisfied both parties and prioritised the children’s needs.

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Property settlement

A couple undergoing a contentious divorce had disagreements over property division. Mediation allowed them to discuss their concerns openly and reach an agreement that was fair and acceptable to both, avoiding a lengthy court battle.

Cost information

Intake interview

$550.00 per interview

Mediation (4 hours)

$1,699.00 per party + $420 per hour each after 4 hours

Section 60I Certificates*

$300.00 each

*Conflict Resolution Service Practitioners are approved to issue s60i Certificates.

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Conflict is difficult. Getting help doesn't have to be.

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