What are FRCs?
Family Relationship Centres (FRCs) are government-funded centres providing free or low-cost services for separating families, including:
Information sessionsFamily Dispute Resolution (mediation)Support servicesReferralsServices Available
Free Services
- Information sessions about separation
Initial FDR sessions (first 3 hours)Support and referral servicesChildren's contact services (some centres)Subsidised Services
- Additional FDR sessions (income-tested)
Post-separation programsWho Can Use FRCs?
Anyone dealing with:
Separation or divorceParenting disputesCommunication difficultiesFamily conflictEligibility
- Australian residents
Separating or separated couplesThose with parenting disputesNo income test for initial services.
What Happens at an FRC?
Step 1: Intake
Individual assessment with each party:
Your situationSafety screeningWhat you hope to achieveWhether FDR is appropriateStep 2: Information
May be offered:
Information sessionsResources about separationReferrals to other servicesStep 3: FDR (If Appropriate)
Structured mediation sessions:
Usually 2-3 hoursMay be joint or shuttle (separate rooms)Focused on children's arrangementsStep 4: Outcome
- Agreement documented
Or Section 60I certificate if no agreementFinding an FRC
Over 65 FRCs across Australia. Find one at:
Family Relationships Online (1800 050 321)familyrelationships.gov.auWhen FRCs Aren't Suitable
FDR may not be offered if:
Family violence concernsChild abuse allegationsUrgency (need immediate court orders)One party refuses to participateAdvantages of FRCs
- Free/low cost
Experienced practitionersChild-focusedLess adversarial than courtCan issue Section 60I certificatesLimitations
- Can't handle property matters
May have wait timesBoth parties must be willingNot suitable for all situations
