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What does the Family Dispute Resolution process involve?
Family Dispute Resolution is a process by which couples who are in conflict can be helped to communicate with each other about what is important for them and how to make decisions about resolving their dispute. The Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners provide clients with a supportive atmosphere and a method of talking to one another, to assist them to sort out the issues and come up with acceptable solutions, and make mutually satisfactory agreements.
The Family Dispute Resolution process involves:
- the parties listening to each other's point of view without interruption
- identifying issues which need to be resolved
- sharing of relevant information
- exploring ideas and options
- testing possible solutions
- putting decisions and agreements in writing.
Resolving a dispute this way:
- saves money and delays, because family dispute resolution is cheaper and quicker than the Court process
- promotes co-operation and improves communication that can enhance an ongoing relationship
- provides a structure in which future disputes can be resolved more readily
- controls the decision-making process; there are no imposed decisions
- is generally less stressful/traumatic than court proceedings
- demonstrates that people are less likely to breach agreements they have made themselves.
Family Dispute Resolution Services
A Family Dispute Resolution session lasts about 2 hours. The average number of sessions for the whole process is between three and five, with the frequency of appointments being adjusted in accordance with participants' needs.
As a not-for-profit community organisation, Relationships Australia aims to provide an affordable service to all clients. Fees apply to the Family Dispute Resolution service. Please call your nearest Relationships Australia office on 1300 364 277 for information about fees.
If you would like to book for a Family Dispute Resolution session, contact your nearest Relationships Australia office:
Canberra and Region | New South Wales | Northern Territory | Queensland
