What is Mediation?

Family Law Mediation is a process which allows people affected by separation and divorce to sort out their disputes with each other. You may have reached a point where you can’t agree on issues concerning your property, children, or money. If you can resolve your differences you’ll save yourself time, money and stress.

What Is Compulsory Family Dispute Resolution?

Family dispute resolution is the name in the Family Law Act for services such as mediation and conciliation. Family dispute resolution can help you sort out these issues without going to court.

If you want to apply to the court for a parenting order (and you had not applied before 1 July 2007 ) you will need a certificate from a registered family dispute resolution provider.

A family dispute resolution practitioner can help you and the other person discuss issues, look at options, and to develop arrangements for your children.

What Is The Mediation Process At CWC?

    The mediation process at CWC involves the following steps:

    1.  A mediator will conduct a confidential conversation (“intake”) for approximately 60-minutes with each party to ensure that mediation is appropriate and to prepare the parties for mediation. The intake can be conducted at CWC or over the phone.

    2.  If there has been physical or emotional abuse in a relationship, mediation may not be suitable. We will let you know if we consider your case to be unsuitable for mediation or whether parties should be in separate rooms.

    3.  If both parties agree to mediate, we will send you a confirmation letter, information sheets and an "Agreement to Mediate" form which must be signed and brought along to your mediation session.

    4. Mediation begins and with the assistance of the mediator, the parties explore possible solutions.

    5.  If agreements are reached the parties draft a written agreement, with the mediator’s help.

How Long Does Mediation Take?

Each mediation session takes 3 hours which includes a refreshment break and separate interviews if required. Depending on the number of issues to be resolved, it may take more than one session to reach agreement on all outstanding issues.

How Much Does Mediation Cost?

Full consultation and intake interview per party (usually 1-2 hours) - $150

Mediation (min 3 hours payable) - $660

Additional time (per hour) - $195

Prepare and issue a section 601certificate - $150

Payment Methods: Cash, Credit Card, Eftpos, Direct transfer

Each party usually pays one half of the total cost of mediation, unless they have otherwise agreed.

Payment for the Intake Interview is due at least 24 hours in advance and is forfeited if the appointment is cancelled within 24 hours of the scheduled time.

Payment for the mediation is due at least 48 hours prior to mediation and is forfeited if the appointment is cancelled within 48 hours of the scheduled time.

Any additional time exceeding three (3) hours will be payable on the day of the mediation.