Family Dispute Resolution
At Empowered Resolutions, we are here to help you navigate and resolve parenting and property disputes with care and understanding.
We offer
Family mediations within two weeks.*
Male and female mediators available or have both in a co-mediation.
Competitive fees for half and full day sessions at a fraction of the cost of going to court.
* Subject to the availability of both parties.
"You don't need to have everything figured out before reaching out. We'll explain the process and answer your questions with no obligation."
What is Family Dispute Resolution?
Family Dispute Resolution (FDR), also known as family mediation, helps separating and divorced parents work through parenting arrangements and property settlements, guided by what's best for their children.
Rather than leaving decisions to a judge, FDR gives you and the other person the chance to sit down together, with the support of an impartial practitioner, and reach an agreement you both actually helped shape.
If you intend to apply to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia for parenting orders, or to change existing orders, you'll generally need a certificate from a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner before proceeding.
Exemptions exist for family violence, child abuse, or urgent matters, which the Court considers on a case-by-case basis.
How Does Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) help?
Our FDR practitioners provide impartial guidance and support throughout the process, helping you and the other person reach an agreement that genuinely works for both of you.
They'll help pinpoint the issues that actually need resolving, make sure everyone has a real opportunity to be heard, and offer relevant information along the way.
As options come up, your practitioner will help you think them through together, checking that whatever you land on is actually workable in practice, not just on paper. If it would help, they can also point you toward other professionals, such as a financial advisor or lawyer.
Once you've reached an agreement, they'll help you get it in writing.
What Are The Benefits of FDR?
In the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, legal costs often range from $50,000 to $150,000, and in complex cases, even more.
Mediation is faster and far more affordable, and it's easier on you and your children than months of court proceedings.
You and the other person will also have real input into the outcome, rather than leaving the decision to a judge. That matters beyond the mediation itself, since people are far more likely to stick to an agreement they helped shape, and the process itself often helps you communicate better as co-parents going forward, laying a foundation for working through anything that comes up later too.
"I chose Kate because of her unique combination of qualifications in both psychology and law, and I felt she genuinely cared and was committed to helping us work through a complex and emotionally challenging situation."
- Paul
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer to take part in mediation?
No, mediation doesn't require a lawyer. Many people come to us without one. That said, we always encourage you to get independent legal advice before signing any agreement, so you understand your rights and options fully.
What if the other parent won't agree to mediation?
We can reach out to explain the process and answer their questions too. Mediation only works if both people are genuinely willing to take part, so if they're hesitant, we're happy to have a conversation with them directly.
Is everything discussed in mediation confidential?
Yes. What's said in mediation is private and can't be used as evidence in court, with limited exceptions such as an admission of risk to a child. Your intake session is also completely confidential between you and your practitioner.
What happens if we can't reach an agreement?
That's alright, not every matter resolves through mediation, and that's a normal part of the process for some people. If parenting matters are involved and mediation doesn't proceed or an agreement isn't reached, we can issue a Section 60I Certificate, which you'll usually need before applying to court.
How much does mediation cost compared to going to court?
Court costs in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia often range from $50,000 to $150,000. Our sessions are a fraction of that. You can see our full, transparent fee schedule on our Fees page.
Can we do this over Zoom instead of in person?
Yes, we offer mediation via Zoom, in person at our Cronulla or Sydney CBD meeting rooms, or a mix, with one person attending in person and the other by video, whichever works best for both of you.
Can we have both a male and female mediator?
Yes, we're able to offer co-mediation with a male and female mediator, which not all practices can provide. Both mediators remain fully impartial throughout. This option is available for an additional fee; see our Fees page for details.