Property Mediation
A structured process to help separated couples reach agreement on property and financial matters without going to court.
Is this the right support?
This service may be right for you if:
- you have separated and need to finalise property or financial arrangements
- you want to avoid the emotional and financial costs of court
- you intend to apply to court and are required to attempt mediation first
- you are ready to discuss assets, liabilities and financial disclosure
If you’re unsure, we can help determine whether mediation is suitable for your situation.
How it works
1. Initial contact and intake
Each person attends a confidential intake session. Suitability and safety are assessed.
2. Disclosure
Both parties are required to provide full and frank financial disclosure, including relevant documents.
3. Mediation session
Sessions are facilitated by a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner.
Most matters involve up to two sessions.
4. Next steps
If agreement is reached, you may seek legal advice and formalise arrangements through Consent Orders or other legal pathways.
Who this is usually suitable for
- Separated married couples
- De facto partners
- Couples seeking to finalise financial matters post-separation
- People required to demonstrate an attempt at mediation before court
It may not be suitable where there are significant safety concerns or refusal to engage.
Getting Started
You can begin by:
- completing our online Request for Service form
- calling our team directly
- emailing familylawreferrals@centacarenenw.com.au
We will contact you to arrange intake and explain next steps.
Practical details
Fees
Free services:
- Information and referrals
- Individual sessions (intake/assessment)
- First hour of joint Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)
Mediation (Family Dispute Resolution - FDR)
After the free hour:
If income is under $50,000 per year
- Up to first 3 hours FREE
If income is $50,000+ per year
- First hour FREE
- Hours 2-3 $30 per hour (per person)
Service cost breakdown:
Intake / assessment - Free
Information / referrals - Free
First mediation hour - Free
Mediation (low income) - Free (up to 3hrs)
Mediation ($50k+ income) - $30ph after first hour
Timeframes
We aim to complete mediation within approximately 90 days, depending on engagement and document disclosure.
Locations
Available across Tamworth, Armidale, Glen Innes, Inverell, Moree, Narrabri and Gunnedah.
Proof & documentation
If mediation does not proceed or agreement is not reached, we can provide documentation confirming your attempt to mediate, which may be required when applying to court.
If agreement is reached, you may seek legal advice to formalise the outcome.
Looking to refer someone?
We accept referrals from:
- Legal practitioners
- Courts
- Community services
- Self-referrals
To refer someone, contact our team or direct them to complete the online Request for Service form.