Going to family dispute resolution (mediation)

Last checked: 31 October 2026

The short answer

Family dispute resolution is a meeting where a neutral, accredited practitioner helps you and the other parent try to agree about the children, and sometimes about money. In most cases you must try it before you can apply to court for parenting orders. At the end you may get a section 60I certificate. There are exceptions, including family violence, child abuse and urgency.

Key dates and time limits

• You need a section 60I certificate before filing for parenting orders, unless the court grants an exemption.
• Family Relationship Centres give up to 1 hour of joint sessions free; hours 2 and 3 cost $30 an hour if your gross income is $50,000 or more (as at October 2026).

Step by step

1. 1

   Find a practitioner

   You can go to a Family Relationship Centre, a community service or a private practitioner. Check that they are an accredited family dispute resolution practitioner on the Attorney-General's Department register. Victoria Legal Aid runs a free service when at least one person has a grant of legal aid.

2. 2

   Intake and safety check

   Each person has a private intake session first. The practitioner checks whether it is safe and suitable to go ahead. Tell them about any family violence. You may be in separate rooms, or join by phone or video.

3. 3

   Prepare

   Think about what your child needs, not just what you want. Write down the issues, your proposals, and a few options you could live with. Bring your diary and calendar.

4. 4

   The session

   The practitioner helps you talk and look at options. They do not take sides or make a decision. What is said is generally confidential and cannot be used in court, though some things, like a risk of child abuse, must be reported.

5. 5

   Get your certificate

   A section 60I certificate can say that you both attended and made a genuine effort, that someone did not make a genuine effort, that the other person refused or failed to attend, or that it was not appropriate to start or continue. The court may consider which kind of certificate it is.

6. 6

   Put any agreement in writing

   You can make a parenting plan, or apply for consent orders so the agreement becomes legally binding. Agreements reached outside the court are not automatically binding.

Who can help

Forms and the law