Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) can feel like a big unknown when you’re separating. That’s why we’ve created this infographic – to walk you through one common FDR pathway at Relationships Australia NSW.
While every situation is different, this gives a general idea of what to expect if you’re engaging in FDR through one of our Family Relationship Centres.
A typical FDR timeline:
1. Start with a phone call
Your first step is to book a free Family Advisor appointment by calling us on 1300 364 277. This is a short conversation to learn a bit about your situation, discuss your options, and help determine whether FDR is the right next step for you. We can also refer you to more of our services which can help you, like counselling, or group programs.
2. We contact the other person involved
If you’re ready to proceed and it’s appropriate to do so, we’ll reach out to the other party to invite them to take part. We’ll usually allow up to two weeks for a response.
3. The other party will have their Family Advisor appointment
If they agree to participate, they’ll also have an individual Family Advisor appointment, where we’ll explain the process, answer any questions, and offer support or referrals.4. If you have children, you’ll both complete our Kids in Focus online course
This is an online course that helps parents understand how separation can impact children, and how to keep their wellbeing front and centre during the process.
5. You’ll be placed on the waitlist
Once both parties are on board, we’ll place you on a waitlist and contact you when a mediator becomes available. We do our best to book everyone in within about a month. In the meantime, we’ll share some resources to help you prepare, such as our short video series on finances after separation.6. You’ll meet the mediator
Before mediation begins, you’ll each have a private session with the mediator to talk through your goals, concerns, and what you’d like to work on. We often begin with parenting matters, then move to financial issues, depending on your needs. If at any point it turns out that mediation isn’t the right fit, we’ll help you with next steps, including providing a Section 60I certificate if needed.7. Joint mediation sessions begin
You and the other person will meet in a calm, structured environment to work through the issues together with support from a trained mediator. This could take place in the same room or in separate rooms (called a shuttle format). Many people reach agreements after one or two sessions, while others may need more time.8. What if we don’t agree?
That’s OK. We’ll issue a Section 60I certificate if required, and help you understand your options – including further support or legal advice.
9. And if we do agree?
We’ll help you document your parenting or property agreement. While not legally binding, you’ll be encouraged to seek legal advice if you’d like to formalise it.10. Ongoing support
Throughout the process, we can connect you with counselling, parenting programs, legal support, or other services. You’re also welcome to return to FDR down the track if things change.Not every case follows this exact path – but many do
Every family is different. Sometimes the process is shorter. Sometimes it’s longer. In some cases, one person may not want to participate. In others, the situation may change, and mediation becomes unsuitable. But for thousands of families each year, FDR offers a supported, affordable and respectful way to move forward.If you’re separating and want to explore whether FDR is right for you, call us on 1300 364 277 to book a free Family Advisor appointment. Or, request a call back here.
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Going through separation or divorce is often emotional and difficult, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. To help you through, we offer affordable Family Dispute Resolution services, also known as family mediation, throughout NSW.
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When parents separate, it can significantly impact their children. Kids in Focus is a practical, online course developed for separating families to navigate and support their children through these challenges.
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