What is family dispute resolution — and how can it help your family?

Family dispute resolution provides a safe, supportive, and practical space to work through important decisions about parenting, property, and finances, helping families reduce conflict and move forward with confidence.

Understanding family dispute resolution

Family dispute resolution, also known as mediation, helps separating couples or families work through key decisions about parenting, finances, and communication. The goal is to reach agreements that support everyone’s wellbeing — especially children.

Family dispute resolution is:

• Required under the Family Law Act to be attempted before making an application to the court (exceptions may apply)
• Confidential: Conversations stay private (with some legal exceptions)
• Child-focused: The needs and safety of children come first

Putting children first

Australia’s updated family law system places children’s safety and wellbeing at the heart of every decision. Family dispute resolution practitioners work with parents to create arrangements that help children feel secure, supported, and loved.

What can family dispute resolution help with?

Family dispute resolution promotes collaboration and supports positive co-parenting relationships, helping reduce conflict and create stability for children and their families.

It can support you to make decisions about:

1. Parenting arrangements (where children live, time with each parent, holidays)
2. Financial support for children
3. Division of property and assets
4. Communication and co-parenting after separation

Why choose family dispute resolution?

1. Less stressful than court: A supportive space for discussion without the pressure of legal proceedings
2. Empowering: Make decisions together rather than having outcomes decided for you
3. Flexible: Create a plan that fits your family’s unique needs
4. Cost-effective: Usually free or low-cost, saving time and money compared to court

Who can access family dispute resolution?

Family dispute resolution is available to anyone who wants to discuss the care of children under 18, or financial and property matters (whether or not you have children).

It’s open to:

1. Married, de facto, or same-sex couples
2. Parents, grandparents, or other family members involved in caregiving
3. Individuals needing help to communicate and plan after separation

Family dispute resolution isn’t right for every situation, especially where there are safety concerns. Practitioners will always prioritise your safety and can connect you with other supports if needed.

How the family dispute resolution process works

While the exact process may vary between organisations, family dispute resolution generally involves these steps:

1. Initial contact and intake: Phone appointment to discuss your situation and determine needs.
2. General information session: If the matter involves children, you’ll attend a general information session.
3. Confidential meeting: Meet with a practitioner to discuss your situation and ensure family dispute resolution is appropriate.
4. Joint sessions: Both parties meet with a practitioner — either together or separately (“shuttle mediation”) — to discuss issues and work toward an agreement.
5. Written agreements: If a resolution is reached, it can be recorded in a written agreement (not legally binding). You may be referred for legal advice if needed.

If family dispute resolution isn’t suitable, the practitioner will provide guidance to other supports.

Family dispute resolution support in Victoria

If you live in Victoria and are considering family dispute resolution, our Family Relationship Centre can help. You don’t need a referral, just reach out for a confidential conversation about your options.

We offer face-to-face, phone, and online mediation to help you find a way forward that works for your family.

To learn more, visit the Family Relationship Centre webpage or call 1300 003 224.

What families say about their experience

Families often tell us how much family dispute resolution helped them feel heard, supported, and hopeful about the future. Here’s what some have shared: