Mediation Services
Southern Mediation Services are accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners. We can assist with both parenting plans, property settlements and issue Section 60I Certificates.
We also offer mediation services for workplace and community disputes.
We offer both online mediation and face to face. We appreciate that people in regional and rural areas may not have easy access to family dispute resolution and mediation services, and welcome your enquiry.
Family Dispute Resolution
At Southern Mediation Services, we offer a Family Dispute Resolution service that is both professional and compassionate. We provide confidential and respectful mediation services that can help with parenting plans, property settlements, and Section 60I Certificates. Our facilitative approach encourages communication and collaboration to reach an agreement that works for your family.
Parenting
We specialize in family dispute resolution. We understand that family conflicts can be emotionally charged and difficult to navigate. Our experienced mediators are here to help you find a peaceful resolution to your disputes that put the needs of your kids at the forefront. Let us help you create a parenting plan that reflects your family's needs and interests.
Property
A property agreement is a written agreement between you that covers all the practical aspects of the division of property of the relationship. This can be a daunting prospect. We can help you to prepare for property mediation and support you through a facilitative mediation process to reach a mutually agreeable outcome.
Family Dispute Resolution
At Southern Mediation Services, we use a facilitative model of mediation which focuses on self-determination and the needs of your children. We understand that each family is unique and we strive to create a safe and respectful environment for all parties involved. Our experienced mediators are trained to facilitate communication and help you find a solution that works for everyone.
Family dispute resolution (FDR) is a practical way for separating families to make arrangements for the future without having to go to court and incur huge legal costs. If you reach agreement in your FDR, you can enter into a parenting plan or file an Application for Consent Orders with the Court to make it legally binding. If you are unable to reach agreement, we can issue a Section 60I certificate.
There are some exceptions to providing a certificate, such as urgency and family violence or child abuse. We highly recommend you seek legal advice if this is the case. A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and responsibilities and explain how the law applies to your case.
How does FDR work?
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Make a free enquiry to see if FDR is the right option for you.
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If it is, we will send an invitation to mediate to the other party(s).
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If the other party(s) accept, we will invite each of you to a separate intake assessment to determine the suitability of your matter for FDR. This is compulsory.
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If the matter is suitable for FDR, we will determine the best way to proceed with your best interests in mind. Online FDR is a safe and easy way to progress, but if a face to face mediation is a preferred option, we are happy to discuss this with you.
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You will be provided with useful information and resources to help you identify the needs and concerns you wish to mediate. It is important to be prepared for mediation. If needed, the FDRP will offer a pre-mediation session to help you prepare.
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Mediation takes place. We offer half-day and full-day mediations, but if more time is needed, this can be negotiated.
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If agreement is reached, the FDRP will provide you with your agreed parenting plan or property settlement. This agreement will be signed and dated by all parties. You will be provided with a Certificate of Dispute Resolution.
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If you wish to make your agreement legally binding, you may apply to the Court for Consent Orders. We encourage you to seek legal advice regarding next steps.
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If you do not reach agreement, a Section 60I certificate may be issued which satisfies the Court's pre-application procedures for filing for Consent Orders.
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Parenting Plans
A parenting plan is a written agreement between separated parents about how their children will be cared for and supported, what the responsibilities are of each parent, how you will communicate regarding the children and all other practical aspects of parenting your children now and into the future.
A parenting plan must be made and signed by both parents, but other people such as grandparents or step-parents can be included in the plan.
A parenting plan is not legally enforceable. To be considered a parenting plan under the law, it must be in writing, signed and dated by both parties. If both of you agree, you can apply to the Court for Consent Orders. You do not need to attend Court to do this, but you will need to consult with your lawyer.
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It is important for you to be prepared when you come to mediation, so we've created a checklist to help you consider the areas of parenting that may be discussed during your mediation. You may wish to include other things too. We always recommend you seek appropriate legal advice about your situation.
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Property Settlement
A property agreement is an agreement about the division of property of the relationship. It includes any assets (things you own) and any liabilities (debts and things you owe money on), as well as other significant contributions made during the relationship.
Married or de facto partners can settle their financial and property matters before or after separation and do not have to divorce to do so. If you are divorced, you have 12 months from the time of your divorce to settle these matters.
A property agreement is not legally enforceable. To be considered a Financial Agreement under the law, it must be in writing, signed and dated by both parties. You will also need a certificate from your lawyer saying that you have received independent legal advice. If both of you agree, you can apply to the Court for Consent Orders. You do not need to attend Court for this, but you will need to consult with your lawyer.
Property is anything of value accumulated during the relationship. It can include things like real estate, vehicles, furniture, jewellery, superannuation, beneficial entitlements in family trusts, inheritances and gifts. It also includes direct financial contributions and non-direct financial contributions such as care of the children, house maintenance and renovations.
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You are expected to provide a full and honest disclosure of all your financial information. A property settlement may be delayed if there is not a full disclosure from the beginning.
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