Mediation can feel unfamiliar, and many adults have similar questions before booking a session. This FAQ page provides clear, practical information to help visitors understand the process and feel confident reaching out.
What is mediation?
Mediation is a structured, neutral process that supports adults to work through disagreements, improve communication and reach practical, future‑focused agreements.
What types of disputes can mediation help with?
Mediation supports a wide range of adult disputes, including:
neighbourhood issues
trades and commercial disagreements
separation support
adult relationship tensions
property and shared‑asset issues
wills, estate and future‑planning conversations
Is mediation confidential?
All enquiries and mediation sessions are handled with strict confidentiality.
How long is a mediation session?
Most sessions run for 90-120 minutes, allowing time to explore the issue, understand perspectives, and work toward workable outcomes.
How many mediation sessions are usually needed?
Many disputes resolve within one to three sessions, depending on the complexity of the issue and the level of tension involved.
How much does mediation cost?
Transparent pricing discussed upfront. Payment required before mediation commences. See the dispute type pages for a price guide.
Can mediation help if communication has broken down?
Yes. Mediation provides a calm, structured space that supports clear communication even when discussions have become difficult or emotionally charged.
Does mediation involve legal advice?
Mediation is a neutral, non‑legal process. Participants may seek independent legal advice at any stage if needed.
Can mediation agreements be documented?
Yes. Agreements reached in mediation can be recorded in writing so both parties have clarity moving forward.
Is online mediation available?
Yes. Mediation is available online Australia‑wide, with local support for Taree, Forster, Old Bar, Wingham, Harrington and the wider Manning Valley.
What if one person is unsure about attending mediation?
A private pre‑mediation conversation can be arranged to explain the process, answer questions and reduce hesitation.
What happens if an agreement cannot be reached in mediation?
If an agreement is not reached, mediation still provides clarity, improved communication and a better understanding of the issues. Further options can be discussed.
Is mediation suitable for long‑standing conflict?
Long‑term tensions are common. Mediation helps clarify what sits underneath the conflict and supports forward‑focused decision‑making.
Do both parties have to pay for mediation?
Yes, typically both parties split the total cost of the mediator completely equally. Paying equally keeps the process fair and ensures the mediator stays 100% neutral and supportive of both sides throughout the process.
What happens if we can’t stand to be in the same room?
You do not have to interact directly. We offer Shuttle Mediation (both online and face-to-face), where the mediator moves entirely between separate physical rooms or secure private video links. You can reach a complete agreement without ever seeing or speaking to the other party.
Can you organise child custody arrangements?
I can help parents build practical communication boundaries, household rules, and everyday logistics roadmaps. However, I am not an accredited Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) Practitioner and cannot issue Section 60I certificates needed for formal family law court custody proceedings.
Do I need to download any complicated software for online mediation?
No app downloads are required. Our online sessions run through secure Google Meet links. You simply click the link from your email using any standard smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer with an internet connection.
Can we come back to update our agreement later?
Absolutely. Circumstances change as children grow or business projects shift. For returning clients within 12 months of their last signed agreement, we waive all initial case preparation fees and offer a fast-tracked, streamlined review session to update specific clauses.