Separation is one of the most stressful life events that we can experience. You’d be hard pressed to find anyone who had not been impacted by separation in some way or another.
Simply scroll through any community parent Facebook group and it shouldn’t take too long to find a post from someone separating and asking for some guidance as to what to do next.
From living situations to your own mental health to your finances to where the children are going to live and how they will cope, there’s a lot to think about.
There is one thing for certain, you are not alone. There are so many people in the community ready to help you. You just need to ask.
When you separate, you will need to:
- Apply for divorce (if married and eligible) with the Federal Circuit Court and Family Court of Australia;
- Make appropriate arrangements for the care and parenting of any children that are in the best interests of the children; and
- Divide the assets in a manner that is just and equitable to both sides.
Not all separations are acrimonious. Not all separating couples want to or can afford or want to pay for legal fees. It is becoming increasingly common for families to want to resolve their disputes as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. Around 85-90% of cases resolve outside of a court room through alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation.
Mediation is where a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) facilitates a discussion between the parties to assist in problem solving their family law disputes.
More than that, FDRPs can assist in finding and navigating support through their networks, from social groups to financial advisors so that you are properly supported so that your family is empowered to reach the best possible outcomes for your next chapter.
What are the benefits of mediation? So many! Here’s just a few:
- Reach agreements in a quicker, more cost-effective and in a less stressful way.
- Families are empowered to come to arrangements in the best interests of their children, not a court room telling them.
- Improves the chances of agreements reached lasting which reduces conflict for both the parties and children involved.
- Provides an opportunity to improve your communication and relationship with the other party or co-parent.
You can access an FDRP who practices privately (you can visit the FDRP register on the Attorney-General’s Department website) or through a relationship centre such as Relationships Australia.
If you are struggling, please call lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are experiencing domestic violence, please call 1800 737 732.
If you require Mediation Assistance Click below:
Get Help with Mediation
