Have you ever wondered what the difference is between Family Dispute Resolution and Mediation? You are not alone. This question is a common question.
So what is the answer? Nothing!
As far as the process is concerned there is no difference between Family Dispute Resolution (also knows as FDR) and Mediation. FDR usually refers to a mediation about parenting matters however some people will speak of this using both names and that is ok.
The only difference is with the person conducting FDR or Mediation.
WHO CAN CONDUCT A FAMILY DISPUTE RESOLUTION OR MEDIATION?
In order to conduct FDR you must be a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP). The Attorney-General’s department looks after the registration and they provide all registered FDRP’s with a registration number.
A mediator on the other hand does not need to be registered with any governing body. Most reputable mediators will be nationally accredited but this is not compulsory.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FDRP AND A MEDIATOR?
The only other difference again lies with the person. That is, only an FDRP is able to issue a section 60I certificate . If you want to go to the family court you may need this certificate.
Apart from this though there are no other differences. Every mediator themselves is different and may conduct mediations differently but in a family law context FDR and mediation can sometimes be interchanged and that is ok.
