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.

    
 
 
       Very happy that we came across Bayside Mediation. Alina was prompt and very professional in her approach and work. Would happily recommend to anyone going through separation.
  
 
    
   Belinda Simmons 
 3 January 2023
 
 
 
      Dianne was a wonderful mediator and took time to listen and understand as well as suggesting several helpful modifications to allow us to come to a mutual agreement. I highly recommend her services. Thank you Dianne!
  
 
    
   amanda meyer 
 11 October 2022
 
 
 
      Professional, experienced & understanding. They were empathetic, non judgemental & actively listened to all sides. Exceptional service.
  
 
    
   patricia wright 
 8 September 2022
 
 
 
      thank you....i thought Romani facilaited our discussions very well and supported us through the process with a balanced level of care.
  
 
    
   Michael Todd 
 29 August 2022
 
 
 
      Sophie was brilliant. Her initial communication regarding the process was excellent. She was unbiased in her approach and attempted to ensure that both of us came to an acceptable agreement. We willingness to go above and beyond was evident in her email communication throughout the entire process and was so reassuring throughout. Thank you Sophie.
  
 
    
   Ashleigh Hoogendoorn 
 19 July 2022
 
 
 
      It was great to have had help from Bayside mediation, Sophie helped us trough a very difficult time and was very helpful throughout the process, we are very grateful with her and would definitely recommend.
  
 
    
   Mr Sparkle Window Cleaning 
 18 July 2022
 
 
 
      Difficult process of property mediation was handled professionally and promptly by Alina. She is knowledgable, resourceful and hard working. She is also a skilled communicator, supportive and non-judgemental. I am exceptionally pleased with her assistance and would highly recommend her.
  
 
    
   Marina V. 
 1 July 2022
 
 
 
      I found Bayside Mediation a great benefit for those entering unknown territory. A split from a partner is never an easy process, the good people at BM made it simple for us. They explained everything very clearly and explained where each person stood. Thank you Bayside Mediation. Moving on happily and without regret.
  
 
    
   Wayne Gale 
 21 June 2022
 
 
 
      I engaged Dianne at Mediation Matters to assist with coming to an agreement on a single parenting decision. Dianne was prompt to engage the process, clear and upfront with how the mediation would work and what I needed to consider coming into it. Unfortunately my daughters father chose not to attend mediation, however, Dianne provided ongoing support and referrals to assist me even though the mediation was unsuccessful. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. If you genuinely wish to resolve your issues, I believe Dianne has the right approach to help achieve this.
  
 
    
   Danae Conway 
 20 June 2022
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
   Google rating score: 4.3 of 5, based on 51 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 Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners (FDRP) are qualified, recognised industry experts who specialise in helping separating couples negotiate and formalise their parenting arrangements.

Our team is experienced in working with parents in high-conflict situations. We provide a safe, managed, balanced and discreet space for you to discuss your differences and negotiate your agreements.

If mediation is unsuccessful, an FDRP is the only professional who can issue the 60(I) certificate, which is required to take a children’s matter to court. At Bayside Mediation, we can provide certificates.

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.