Supporting children and families through parenting plan mediation
At Bayside Mediation, we help you craft parenting plans and child care arrangements with sensitivity, empathy, and a focus on the long-term well-being of the entire family.

Trusted by 100's of families Australia wide
Child access arrangements & parenting plan mediation services
Putting your kids first
We recognise the profound impact family transitions can have on children. Maintaining positive co-parenting relationships is critical for your child’s sense of security and emotional well-being.
Bayside Mediation’s expert family mediators ensure your child’s needs are put front and centre during the parenting plan mediation process.
Child Inclusive Practice (CIP)
Bayside Mediation’s qualified Child Consultants use play and discussion to understand how your child is coping with the separation. Child Inclusive Practice ensures children’s views are expressed and considered during the mediation.

benefits of child focused Mediators
Why use mediation?
Separating couples in Australia must attempt mediation before taking their child custody matter to court. It is a requirement of the Australia Family Law Act.
- At Bayside Mediation, 80% of our clients successfully negotiate co-parenting agreements without ever involving the courts.
- We help separating couples minimise conflict, foster cooperation and communication and avoid costly and emotionally draining court battles.
- We are typically able to see clients within days – not weeks or months. We understand that fast resolution is essential to helping everyone involved move forward in a healthy manner.
Alina is a very honest mediator, she care for her client for their family genuinely. Alicia L24 July 2025 Thank you Dianne and Alina for resolving our complex mediation in a fair and professional process. My advice to your potential clients is to avoid lawyers at all costs if possible. I paid a heavy legal price and was amazed at their costing and revenue structure designed to maximise profits at every opportunity. Phone calls, emails, even asking you for some information came at cost of $45 each. Unwarranted and unwanted conversations was billed exorbitantly as legal advice. Mediation is the most cost effective way to resolve issues, especially financial separations and division of assets. Pay attention of lawyers per hour rates compared to the costs of mediation. Stay alert, ask questions and maintain control of your costs. I strongly recommend Bayside Mediation if you want a fair, open, cost effective and transparent process to resolve your personal or family issues. Lawyers and Courts is an option that should be avoided at all costs, if possible. At least speak to Bayside Mediation and weigh up your options. They cannot take sides and they operate legally but without the exorbitant fees, hidden charges and costs. Think and be alert before being caught out by the legal trap. Your assets and money belongs in your pocket because stress and vulnerability can lead to making bad choices.depleting you legally ! Jean Leclair1 July 2025 I would like to thank Alina and the team at Bayside mediation for the professionalism and willinginess to support in challenging circumstances. Alina specifically went above and beyod to work to try get stakeholders to the table and her commitment went well beyond just being a facilitor but rather being a figure that can assist to coax stakeholders through apprehension to the table. Dean Mueller18 June 2025 I want to give a big thanks to Tess, who helped me a lot through my divorce. I went to see her twice, and since then if I had any follow up questions I could text or call her and get a fast answer. She listens to me patiently and always gives a helpful answer. I would recommend Tess’ services to anyone who needs it. Fatima Jong24 November 2024 I had the need to enquire how the mediation process worked. Alina explained the process to me such that it gave me confidence to get my partner involved. I'm happy that it worked so well for both my partner and myself. Excellent support service from Alina. Anonymous jeffrey taylor5 October 2024 I was initially quite hesitant about my appointment, having had a bad experience with a different mediation group many years ago. On meeting Dianne, those fears were alleviated. She was compassionate and genuinely focused on helping us reach the best possible outcome for us all. Her consistent availability via phone and email, along with her honest and objective guidance, provided incredible support throughout the entire process. I highly recommend Bayside and Dianne to anyone seeking mediation services. Thank you Dianne and team. Jeni Jaya26 September 2024Google rating score: 4.3 of 5, based on 64 reviews
Helping australian families through Child Custody And Parental PLAN Mediation
Parenting Plans tailored to your family’s needs
- Today, custody is considered a thing of the past, and children have a right to enjoy a safe and meaningful relationship with both their parents. Both parents are responsible for making major decisions such as where the children will live, their education, religion, and healthcare.
- Our experienced mediators will work with you to create a Parenting Plan outlining your child’s living arrangements, how much time they will spend with each parent, and how major decisions regarding their upbringing will be made.
- Your Parenting Plan is tailored to your family’s unique circumstances. It can be as comprehensive or informal as needed and is designed to be fluid as circumstances change, providing children with long-term stability.
When choosing a parenting plan mediator, it’s reassuring to know you’re in expert hands
Our practitioners are qualified, recognised, child-focused industry experts
FAQS For child & Parenting plan arrangements
Your child & parenting plan mediation questions answered
How much does parenting plan mediation and child access agreements cost?
Family mediation fees start from $500 however, it’s important to recognise that most separations aren’t that black and white.
For a more accurate estimate, book a free consultation with a qualified expert family dispute resolution practitioner here.
How does an in-home separation work when children are involved?
This scenario has become more common, driven by the high cost of living.
The process involves establishing clear boundaries and communication strategies to ensure the well-being of the children.
For a detailed explanation of in-home separation concerning children, click here.
How do I make this change as easy as possible for my children?
These are our key tips to make the transition easier for your children.
- Open Communication
- Consistency and Routine
- Emotional Support
- Child-Centric Decision-Making
- Professional Guidance
For a more detailed guide, click here.
What can I do if I notice my kids are struggling with our separation? Are there signs to look out for?
Signs of distress may include changes in behaviour, mood swings, withdrawal, or a decline in academic performance.
Remember, each child responds differently, and it’s essential to tailor your approach based on their unique needs. If you need additional guidance, family mediation services can assist in navigating these challenges.
For more information on supporting your children through separation, click here.