Section 60I Certificate
Family Dispute Resolution
Prepare for FDR mediation. Understand the process, get your Section 60I certificate, and know when exemptions apply.
Required
Before Court
3 Hours
Free at FRCs
65+
FRC Locations
What is Family Dispute Resolution?
- Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is a type of mediation
- Conducted by accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners (FDRPs)
- Required before court for most parenting matters
- Voluntary for property-only matters, but often recommended
- Results in a Section 60I certificate
- Sessions can be joint or individual (shuttle mediation)
Exemptions from FDR
You may be able to go directly to court if:
Family Violence
There are reasonable grounds to believe family violence has been committed
Child Abuse
There are reasonable grounds to believe a child has been abused
Urgency
The matter is urgent and delay would prejudice a party or child
Incapacity
A party is unable to participate effectively (e.g., mental illness, drug dependency)
Refusal
The other party refuses to attend FDR
Previous Attempt
FDR was attempted and failed within last 12 months
Certificate Types
After FDR, you receive one of these certificates for court
Certificate ABoth parties made a genuine effort but didn't reach agreement
Certificate BOne party did not make a genuine effort
Certificate CFDR was not appropriate (e.g., family violence)
Certificate DThe other party refused to attend
Certificate EThe practitioner was not satisfied it would be appropriate to proceed
Frequently Asked Questions
Find an FRC Near You
Use our FRC Centre Finder to locate your nearest Family Relationship Centre for free or low-cost FDR.