Family dispute resolution as refer in section 60I of the Family Law Act 1975 means trying to come to an agreement about your family arrangements, rather than going to court. It helps couples who have separated sort out their disputes. Resolving your differences you'll save yourself time, money and a whole lot of stress.
The object of this section is to ensure that all persons who have a dispute make a genuine effort to resolve that dispute by family dispute resolution before filing an appliaction with the Court. Some exceptions to this requirement apply - for example, in situations involving family violence or child abuse, or in urgent matters.
The process is led by a family dispute resolution practitioner who can help you discuss the issues, look at options and work out how to reach agreement. The family dispute resolution practitioner can give you a certificate at the end of the process.
The certificate may say you have:
The certificate may also say you do not need to participate if it is difficult for you to participate equally in the dispute resolution process, including if there is family violence or child abuse.