Mediation & FDR
What is family dispute resolution?
FDR is a structured conversation with an accredited practitioner — not a Gold Coast “we get settlements” product. In many parenting cases it sits in front of the courthouse door.
At a glance
Citeable facts, not slogans
- 60I
- Certificate often needed before parenting filings
- Exceptions
- Violence, urgency and risk can change the rule
- Property
- No identical 60I rule for property-only disputes
- Not court
- A mediator does not decide your case
Family dispute resolution (FDR) is a structured process with an accredited FDR practitioner. It is a conversation with a statutory job: to help people try to resolve parenting (and sometimes other) disputes without immediately filing in court. A mediator does not decide your case like a judge.
In most parenting cases, a person must attempt FDR and obtain a section 60I certificate before filing a parenting application, unless an exception applies. Family violence, urgency and certain risk issues are the exceptions people most need to check — with a lawyer or FDR provider, not with this paragraph.
Property-only disputes
Property-only disputes do not use the same 60I rule. People still often mediate. That is practical, not a Gold Coast custom.
Safety screening
Do not walk into a joint session you have not screened. If you are unsafe, start at family violence. Shuttle, legally assisted FDR, or an exception may be the live options. This site does not book rooms in Southport or Brisbane.
Where to look
Family Relationships is the Commonwealth public door for FDR information. Legal Aid Queensland also describes lawyer-assisted dispute resolution for some eligible people. Confirm current programs on those sites.
What FDR is not
- not a court hearing
- not a guarantee of agreement
- not a substitute for independent legal advice on a property percentage or a relocation
- not this website
See parenting for how FDR sits in front of many filings.
This website publishes general information about Australian family law, with a Gold Coast and Queensland local lens. It is not legal advice, is not a substitute for advice from a qualified lawyer, and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. Family law is fact-specific. Statutes, court rules and agency processes change. Confirm current requirements with official sources and obtain personalised advice before you act.
Questions
Direct answers first
Do I have to go to mediation before court?
In most parenting cases, a person must attempt family dispute resolution and obtain a section 60I certificate before filing a parenting application, unless an exception applies — for example family violence, urgency or certain risk issues. Property-only disputes do not use the same 60I rule. Check current exceptions with a lawyer or FDR provider.
Can I do FDR on the Gold Coast?
Accredited FDR practitioners and Family Relationship centres operate in Queensland. This site does not book sessions or rank providers. Start with Family Relationships (familyrelationships.gov.au) or a lawyer who can tell you whether FDR is safe and suitable.