Family dispute resolution: A cost-benefit analysis

We are pleased to share the findings of a new cost-benefit analysis on the economic and social benefits of our family dispute resolution (FDR) services.

Conducted by Inform Economics, the analysis offers compelling evidence of the significant advantages FDR provides to families, the family law system and the broader community.

Also known as family mediation, FDR is a professional service designed to assist separating couples to resolve disputes about parenting arrangements, as well as property and financial matters. In Australia, separated parents must usually attempt FDR before undertaking court proceedings related to arrangements for children and parenting matters.

Having pioneered the service in Australia in the early 1980s, and as Victoria’s largest FDR provider, we see every day how FDR changes lives and improves outcomes for children. The new report has quantified this impact, by assessing the costs and benefits of FDR compared to when family disputes are resolved without such interventions.

Read more about our research in the publications below:

• Family dispute resolution: Benefits for parents and the family law system
• Family Dispute Resolution Services: Cost-Benefit Analysis Summary
• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Family Dispute Resolution Services (Parenting)
• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Family Dispute Resolution Services (Parenting and Property)