Family dispute resolution

The Federal Circuit and Family Courts of Australia are the Australian courts vested with the jurisdiction to determine parenting and property disputes between separating parties.

In doing so, the Courts apply the provisions of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) (“the Act”), which is the substantive legislation to determine such disputes.

The Act requires persons to make an attempt to resolve disputes about parenting matters using family dispute resolution (“FDR”) services before applying to a court for a parenting order. For some further information, please see the Court’s brochure - Compulsory pre-filing Family Dispute Resolution – court procedures and requirements.

The information, above, discusses the requirements for parties to obtain a “section 60I certificate” prior to filing, unless an exception applies.

As a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Nathan has undertaken further mediation training and registration which allows him to conduct FDR and, where appropriate, issue s. 60I certificates.

The process is usually commenced through an enquiry for Nathan to invite a party to mediation. This is colloquially known as the “invitation process”, which incurs a fee to issue the invitation, and, if appropriate issue a s. 60I certificate.

If both parties agree to the terms of the FDR, the mediation will occur at a time and place mutually agreed to by the parties.

To make enquiries to Nathan’s availability to mediate, please contact me.

For further information and brochures issued by the Courts, please consider reading (click on link to open):

• Marriage, families and separation

• Parental conflict and its effect on children

• Parenting orders - what you need to know

• Family violence information sheet

• The impact of family violence on children

Further information about these requirements can also be found at the website Commonwealth website Family Relationships or by telephoning the Family Relationships Advice line on 1800 050 321.