Mediation and family dispute resolution
Most family law disputes are resolved without a judge. Mediation gives you a structured way to reach agreement, with more control over the outcome, lower costs and less conflict.
Start with a free 20-minute discovery call. Meetings across Australia, in person or online.
Agreement reached together usually lasts longer than an outcome imposed by a court, especially where you will be co-parenting for years to come.
We prepare you for mediation, attend with you as your lawyer where that helps, and turn what you agree into documents that are clear and legally binding.
Where safety is a concern, we advise on whether mediation is appropriate and how it can be adapted, or whether an exception applies.
Resolution that protects relationships
How a dispute is resolved shapes what comes after it. A respectful process makes co-parenting easier and leaves more of your energy, and your money, for the future.
Our team includes lawyers trained in Collaborative Practice, and we can coordinate support through Florens Psychology & Wellbeing where emotions are running high or children need a voice in the process.
Florens Psychology & WellbeingHow we can assist
We help you choose the right process for your family and prepare thoroughly, so you can negotiate with confidence.
Family dispute resolution
Mediation with an accredited practitioner, required before most parenting applications.
Learn moreLawyer-assisted mediation
Attending mediation with you, advising in the room and documenting agreement on the day.
Property mediation
Resolving financial matters through mediation, often after disclosure and valuations.
Learn moreChild-inclusive mediation
Processes where a specialist helps bring children’s experiences into the discussion.
Shuttle mediation
Mediation in separate rooms or online, where it is not appropriate to be together.
Collaborative practice
A structured process where both parties and their lawyers commit to resolving matters without court.
Arbitration
A private, binding decision on property matters, usually faster than court.
Documenting agreement
Turning what you agree into a parenting plan, consent orders or a financial agreement.
Learn moreIf you need a section 60I certificate to start court proceedings, we can arrange family dispute resolution or advise whether an exception applies.
For a fuller explanation of what to expect, read How does divorce mediation work?
How mediation works, step by step
Every mediation is different, but most follow a similar path from preparation to agreement.
Call 1300 739 954Get advice first
We help you understand your position, the likely range of outcomes and what you want to achieve, so you go in prepared.
Choose the process and practitioner
We recommend the right type of mediation for your situation and an experienced, accredited practitioner.
Intake and screening
The mediator meets each of you separately to understand the issues and check whether mediation is safe and suitable.
The mediation
A structured discussion, together or in separate rooms, where proposals are explored and negotiated.
Record the agreement
Agreements are recorded in writing and, where needed, formalised as a parenting plan, consent orders or a financial agreement.
If agreement is not reached
For parenting matters, the practitioner can issue a section 60I certificate so you can apply to the Court.
“What makes Suvarna truly exceptional is not just her legal expertise, but the humanity, conviction and genuine care she brings to those she represents.”
Thinking about mediation?
Talk to us about preparing well and what to expect.
Why mediation often works
Mediation is not right for every family, but where it is safe it offers real advantages.
More control
You decide the outcome together, rather than having a decision imposed on you.
Lower cost and faster
Mediation usually costs far less than court and can resolve matters in weeks rather than years.
Confidential
What is said in family dispute resolution generally cannot be used as evidence in court, with limited exceptions.
Who you’ll work with
Laura Dowling
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Dr Suvarna Variyar
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Rachael Aydami
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Dan Farkhutdinov
View profileSeparation can take a real toll on you and your children. Our family wellbeing practitioner, Karly O’Shea, can support you and your parenting alongside your matter, starting with an optional, complimentary wellbeing assessment. Family wellbeing support
Common questions about mediation and family dispute resolution
Do we have to try mediation before going to court?
For parenting matters, generally yes. You must make a genuine attempt at family dispute resolution and obtain a section 60I certificate before applying, unless an exception applies. For property matters, parties are expected to try to resolve the dispute before filing, which often means mediation.
What are the exceptions?
Exceptions include family violence or child abuse, or a risk of either, genuine urgency, and situations where a person is unable to participate effectively. We can advise whether one applies to you.
Is mediation confidential?
Generally, yes. Communications in family dispute resolution are confidential and usually cannot be used as evidence in court, with limited exceptions such as disclosures of child abuse or a serious threat to safety.
Can I bring my lawyer?
In many mediations, yes. Lawyer-assisted mediation means you have advice in the room and an agreement can be documented on the day.
What if I do not feel safe being in the same room?
Mediation can be conducted in separate rooms, online or by shuttle, and the practitioner will assess whether it is suitable at all. Tell us about any safety concerns at the outset.
Is an agreement reached in mediation binding?
Not automatically. To be legally binding, it needs to be formalised as consent orders or, for financial matters, a binding financial agreement.
What does it cost?
Your first step is a free 20-minute discovery call, where we listen, explain your options and outline what working with us could look like. If you go ahead, we explain costs clearly at the outset.
This is general information, not legal advice for your situation.
Agreement is possible.
Whether you are preparing for mediation or wondering if it could work for your family, we invite you to start with a confidential conversation about your options.
