Why Mediation?

Mediation offers a calmer, more cost-effective alternative to going to court. Instead of long delays and high legal bills, you and the other party sit down with a neutral mediator who helps guide the conversation toward workable solutions. The process is confidential, flexible, and focused on what matters most, finding a way forward that everyone can live with.

Before the Mediation

Once both parties agree to take part in mediation, we’ll:

• confirm the date, time, and whether the mediation will be held in person on the Sunshine Coast, online, or at another suitable location.
• gather some background information from each party through short intake forms and checklists. This ensures you feel prepared on the day.
• arrange a brief individual phone call with each person. This helps us understand your concerns, expectations, and any important issues before the mediation begins.

This preparation means that when you come to the table, you’ll know what to expect, and we’ll know the best way to guide the conversation.

On Mediation Day

Mediation usually begins with an outline of the process and some ground rules so everyone feels safe and heard. From there, the mediator will:

• explore the issues that need to be resolved
• encourage open discussion and reality-check options
• work with you in joint sessions or separate rooms (depending on what feels most constructive)
• help keep conversations on track and solutions practical

The focus is always on reaching an agreement that works for your unique family situation.

After the Mediation

At the end of the session, one of two things will happen:

• If agreements are reached, they can be written up as parenting plans, financial agreements, or draft consent orders.
• If an agreement isn’t reached, you’ll still walk away with a clearer understanding of the issues and, if it’s a parenting matter, a Section 60I Certificate (required before applying to court).

Preparing for Mediation

The best preparation is simple:

• think about the issues you most want resolved
• bring any relevant documents (for example, financial records or parenting schedules)
• consider possible options that could work for both parties

Most importantly, come with an open mind. Mediation is about problem-solving, not winning or losing.

Mediation Costs

Mediation is significantly less expensive than going to court. Instead of months or years of legal fees, mediation is usually completed in a single day. Our fees are generally shared between the parties, and we offer fixed fee packages so you know exactly what to expect.

• Half-Day Mediation (4 hours) – $2,200 incl GST
• Full-Day Mediation (8 hours) – $3,300 incl GST (If additional time is required, an hourly rate applies.)

Packages include intake sessions, preparation, invitations to the other party, and issuing Section 60I Certificates if required.

Our Mediation Services

We assist with:

• Parenting arrangements and parenting plans
• Property settlement and financial agreements
• Child support arrangements
• De facto relationship separations
• Consent orders (drafting and finalising)
• Child-inclusive mediation (when appropriate)

Our mediations are conducted by a Nationally Accredited Mediator and Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, approved by the Attorney-General’s Department to issue Section 60I Certificates.

Why Choose Integrated Family Law?

We know separation is one of the hardest times in life. Our approach to mediation is:

• Compassionate – we listen first, and guide without judgment
• Practical – we help you explore realistic solutions tailored to your family
• Efficient – we aim to resolve matters quickly, saving you stress and money
• Local – based on the Sunshine Coast, helping families all across Queensland
• Leading Family & Divorce Lawyers – Sunshine Coast, 2025 – Doyle’s Guide

Mediation FAQs

Why should I consider mediation?

Mediation gives you and the other party the chance to sort things out in a safe, neutral space without the stress, cost, and delays of going to Court. Instead of a Judge making decisions for you, mediation allows you to stay in control of the outcome. It’s private, flexible, and focused on solutions that work for everyone involved – especially children.

What actually happens during a mediation?

Before mediation, each party will have an individual intake session to talk about the issues and ask any questions. On the day, the mediator will explain the process and make sure everyone understands how it works. You’ll each have the chance to share your concerns and what matters most to you. From there, the mediator helps guide the discussion, reality-test options, and support negotiations. If needed, you can also have private sessions with the mediator. If an agreement is reached, it can be recorded in a Parenting Plan, Heads of Agreement, Consent Orders, or a Financial Agreement (depending on the type of matter).

Where does mediation take place?

Mediation can be held at our Sunshine Coast office, online, or at another agreed location. We want you to feel comfortable, so the venue will be chosen with that in mind. For online mediations, we use secure platforms so the process runs smoothly no matter where you’re located.

How long does mediation take?

Most mediations run for a full day, but some matters can be resolved in half a day. It depends on the number of issues to be discussed and how complex they are. We’ll talk with you beforehand about what to expect, so you can plan accordingly.

How should I prepare for mediation?

Preparation isn’t just about documents – it’s also about mindset. Think about what matters most to you, and where you may be open to compromise. Make sure you’ve gathered all relevant financial information (for property matters) or details of proposed parenting arrangements (for children’s matters). Being organised helps the day run more smoothly. It’s also important to look after yourself emotionally – counselling or support from trusted friends and family can help you feel more ready.

Can I bring a lawyer or support person?

Yes. Lawyers are encouraged to attend, and many people find it helpful to have them there. You can also bring a support person, but they won’t usually sit in on the joint session unless everyone agrees. Anyone attending must respect confidentiality.

Do I have to be in the same room as the other party?

Not at all. If you’d prefer, we can run what’s called a “shuttle mediation,” where you and the other party stay in separate rooms (or virtual breakout rooms if online). The mediator moves between you to help progress discussions. This option is often used where there are safety concerns or if one or both parties simply feel more comfortable this way.

What if the other party refuses to attend?

In some situations – especially parenting matters – mediation (family dispute resolution) is a legal requirement before going to Court. If the other parent refuses to take part, or mediation isn’t appropriate due to family violence or other reasons, we can issue a Section 60I Certificate, which you’ll need if you decide to apply to the Court.

What are parenting matters?

Parenting matters cover things like where children live, how much time they spend with each parent, schooling, holidays, medical decisions, and other day-to-day parenting responsibilities. Mediation helps parents make these decisions themselves, rather than having arrangements imposed by the Court.

What is Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)?

FDR is just another way of describing mediation in family law matters involving children. It can only be conducted by accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners (like us). The goal is to help parents resolve issues in a child-focused way, without Court intervention.

What if we reach an agreement – is it binding?

That depends on the type of agreement. A Parenting Plan is a written agreement signed by both parents, but it’s not legally binding. Consent Orders, on the other hand, are filed with the Family Court and are enforceable. For property settlements, you may enter into Consent Orders or a Binding Financial Agreement. We’ll talk through the options with you, and you should seek independent legal advice before signing.

Do I need a lawyer at mediation?

You don’t have to have a lawyer present, but it’s highly recommended. A lawyer can explain your legal rights and help ensure any agreement you reach is practical and enforceable. Mediation itself is about resolving disputes, not giving legal advice – so having your lawyer involved gives you added protection and peace of mind.

How much does mediation cost?

Mediation is significantly more affordable than going to Court. Costs are generally shared between the parties, and there are no Court filing fees, expert reports, or drawn-out legal costs. We offer fixed-fee packages for half-day and full-day mediations so you know exactly what to expect upfront.

How do I book a mediation?

Simply get in touch with our team at Integrated Family Law by phone on 07 5443 1813 or via our website contact form.

We’ll talk you through the process, answer any initial questions, and schedule a time that works for everyone involved.

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