Counselling, Mediation and Arbitration

Primary dispute resolution mechanisms such as counselling, mediation and arbitration may help you resolve property or parenting matters without the need to become involved in Court proceedings.

There are specific requirements for counselling and mediation in parenting matters before parents can make an application to the Court for parenting Orders. Please see our section: Parenting Arrangements for Children.

Counselling

Counselling is where you and/or your former partner attend on a third party trained to assist you deal with issues that have arisen in your relationship. Counselling is confidential unless there is an issue of child abuse.

Separating can be hard and many people experience difficulty adjusting to life after separation. It may take some time to completely understand these difficulties. Counselling can help you explore the possibilities of a reconciliation, or to work through the process of separating. Counselling can also assist you to resolve matters affecting the welfare of children.

The Court counselling services provide confidential counselling. If an application has been made in the Family Court in relation to children, counselling may be directed by the Court. If a direction is made, you will be contacted by the Court counselling section for an appointment.

There are also numerous counselling services within the community. If you would like any help in organising an appointment for counselling, we are happy to assist you.

Mediation

Mediation is where a trained mediator, acting as a neutral third party, works with you and your former partner to help you resolve matters on an amicable basis. This can be an informal or formal process. Any settlement reached at mediation can be formalised as Court orders or a binding agreement.

Mediation can be appointed through the Family Court subject to you and your former partner meeting various requirements established by a pre-mediation interview. The Supreme Court can also refer matters to mediation.

Arbitration

Arbitration is where a trained arbitrator is appointed to determine a dispute between you and your former partner.

The Family Court is able to facilitate arbitration of property disputes. The Supreme Court can also facilitate arbitrations.

Please contact us to discuss your counselling, mediation and arbitration options.


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