Mediation Invitation & Intake
$500 + GST
non-refundable
Mediation Invitation & Intake is inclusive of the half and full day mediation bookings.
A practitioner will send an invitation to the other party to engage in Family Dispute Resolution.
If the other party accepts the invitation, the practitioner will undertake an intake session lasting approximately 1 hour with each party to assess whether mediation is suitable to proceed.
An intake session is where each party will have a separate and confidential telephone conversation with the practitioner.
If the intake and/or mediation does not proceed, a section 60I certificate may be issued and the $500 + GST fee is non-refundable.
Full-day mediation
$3,400 + GST
8 hour mediation
(9:00 - 17:00)
Includes:
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Invitation to mediation, if applicable
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Intake session with each party
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Section 60I certificate, if applicable
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Drafting a mediation agreement where parties are self-represented
If the practitioner determines mediation is inappropriate before it commences, a $500 + GST non-refundable fee will be retained and the remainder of the mediation fee will be refunded in accordance with the cancellation policy. A section 60I Dispute Resolution Certificate will be issued if applicable. Once mediation has commenced, no refunds will be provided.
Mediation can take place either in-person or remotely. If in-person, travel fees may be applicable and advised upon booking.
If mediation extends beyond 8 hours, an hourly rate will be charged.
Prefer to discuss your options on the phone? Contact us
Half-day mediation
$2,100 + GST
4 hour mediation
(9:00 - 13:00 or 13:00 - 17:00)
Includes:
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Invitation to mediation, if applicable
-
Intake session with each party
-
Section 60I certificate, if applicable
-
Drafting a mediation agreement where parties are self-represented
If the practitioner determines mediation is inappropriate before it commences, a $500 + GST non-refundable fee will be retained and the remainder of the mediation fee will be refunded in accordance with the cancellation policy. A section 60I Dispute Resolution Certificate will be issued if applicable. Once mediation has commenced, no refunds will be provided.
Mediation can take place either in-person or remotely. If in-person, travel fees may be applicable and advised upon booking.
If mediation extends beyond 4 hours, an hourly rate will be charged.
Prefer to discuss your options on the phone? Contact us
Our Services
Mediation Process
STEP 4:
Mediation session
Mediation takes place at the agreed time and location (or virtually) either in one-room as a joint mediation, or in separate rooms as a shuttle mediation.
STEP 3:
Intake
The practitioner will undertake an intake session lasting approximately 1 hour with each party to assess whether mediation is suitable to proceed.
An intake session is where each party will have a separate and confidential telephone conversation with the practitioner.
If mediation does not proceed, a section 60I certificate may be issued.
STEP 2:
Mediation Agreement
Review and sign the Mediation Agreement, and pay the issued invoice. The agreement must be signed by all parties before mediation can proceed.
STEP 5:
Documentation
The purpose of mediation is for both parties to leave with an agreement in place. This agreement can be drafted into a document; either legally or non-legally binding. The mediator will be able to draft a non-legally binding document for self-represented parties. If there is a lawyer present, the lawyer will draft the agreement.
Benefits of mediation
Reduces conflict
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Helps parents communicate in a calmer, more respectful way.
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Focus is on problem‑solving, not “winning”.
Cost‑effective
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Cheaper than pursuing litigation and/or a court case.
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Fewer lawyer hours and court appearances.
Faster and flexible
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Sessions can be scheduled around work and family.
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You control the pace and timing, not the court.
Protects children
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Keeps children out of court and away from adult conflict.
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Encourages child‑focused parenting plans.
You stay in control
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You and the other party make the decisions, not a judge.
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Agreements can be tailored to your family’s needs.
Confidential and private
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Discussions are private, and not part of a court record.
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Safer space to explore options and make offers.
Better long‑term relationships
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Supports ongoing co‑parenting after separation.
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Reduces resentment and helps families move forward.
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process designed to help people reach agreements in a private, safe environment. This process empowers you to maintain control over the decisions affecting your future, ensuring that outcomes reflect your unique needs rather than a court-imposed ruling.
Mediation prioritises the best interests of any children involved. In doing so, it focuses on the cooperative well-being of the family and provide a constructive pathway during difficult transitions, allowing parties to focus on resolving disputes efficiently and moving forward.
At Vanguard Mediation, our practitioners serve as neutral facilitators who do not take sides or make judgments. Our role is to guide you through clear communication and problem-solving, helping both parties explore solutions and reach mutually acceptable agreements focused on transition and the future.
What is a successful mediation?
A successful mediation results in an agreement between the parties, which can eliminate the need for court proceedings. Court proceedings are often time-consuming, costly and emotionally stressful, and can produce outcomes that are sometimes only marginally different from those achievable through mediation.
Every child needs a parent who is “bigger, stronger, wiser and kind”.
Kent Hoffman, Glen Cooper and Bert Powell