New publication – The benefits of family dispute resolution
14 July 2025
We’re pleased to share our latest research and evaluation summary, ‘Family dispute resolution: Benefits for parents and the family law system’.
This summary highlights the results of a 2024 analysis initiated by Relationships Australia Victoria, and undertaken by Inform Economics.
The analysis was designed to provide a deeper understanding of the economic and social impacts of our family dispute resolution (FDR) services for families, the family law system and the wider community, using an evidence-based approach called a ‘cost-benefit analysis’.
The analysis showed that FDR has substantial financial and social benefits, with a benefit-cost ratio of over 20 to 1. This means that for every $1 dollar spent on FDR, more than $20 of benefits are generated. This highlights the significant value of FDR for both families and the family law system.
On average, families save $41,800 per case by avoiding court-related expenses. When both financial and non-financial benefits are considered, the total benefits reach over $63,000 per case, compared to total costs of approximately $3,000.
The benefits measured included:
- reduced demand on the family law system
- improved financial security for families
- better outcomes for children and parents
- broader social and economic benefits.
This cost-benefit analysis is important in demonstrating both the impact and value of family dispute resolution services, but also informing families so they can make decisions that are in the best interest of their family and children.
Separating families may have heard of FDR, but often, they’re not aware of how positively it can impact them now and, in the future. FDR, however, can help families to not only resolve their disputes about parenting and property, but also reach these agreements more quickly, and in a less costly way than going to court. This helps families to move forward with their lives more quickly, which is better for separating couples, as well as their children.