Separation can be overwhelming, and understanding the cost of mediation shouldn’t add to the stress.
Every family’s circumstances are different, so mediation fees vary depending on the type of matter, its complexity, and the support you require. Rather than providing a standard fee, we offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation, explain the mediation process, and provide a personalised estimate based on your needs.
Our goal is to help you make an informed decision with clear, upfront information before you choose to proceed.
No obligation. Clear information about your options.
Your Free Consultation Includes:
Our goal is to help you understand your options so you can make an informed decision about the next steps.
Individual Intake interviews
Joint mediation sessions
Preparation and review of documents
Parenting Plans or agreement summaries
Section 60I Certificates (if required)
Assistance with formalising agreements
Administrative support
After your free consultation, we’ll provide a clear explanation of any fees that apply based on your individual circumstances.
✔ Melbourne's longest-running private mediation practice
✔ Experienced Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners
✔ Parenting and financial mediation
✔ Child-focused approach
✔ Faster appointments
✔ Free initial consultation
Private mediation may be suitable if you:
✔ want to resolve matters sooner
✔ want flexibility around appointments
✔ need assistance with financial settlements
✔ prefer a personalised service
Every family is different. Book a free, no-obligation consultation and we'll explain:
- Which mediation service suits your situation
- Estimated costs
- Expected timeframes
- Your next steps
FAQS
Bayside Mediation offers quicker access to appointments, flexible scheduling, and a more personalised experience tailored to each family’s needs.
Not-for-profit services are often more affordable and community-focused, though they may involve longer waiting periods and limited availability.
Families who choose mediation may save tens of thousands of dollars compared to lengthy court proceedings, while also benefiting from a faster, more private, and less stressful process. Mediation encourages improved communication and cooperation, helping families reach practical agreements and maintain healthier long-term co-parenting relationships.
| Mediation | Court Process |
|---|---|
| Usually completed in 1–3 sessions. However, the number of sessions depends on the complexity of your situation and the issues to be resolved. Some families reach agreement after a single mediation session, while others may benefit from additional sessions. | Can take months or even years |
| Lower legal and administrative costs | Ongoing legal fees and court costs |
| Flexible and cooperative process | Formal and adversarial process |
| Encourages quicker agreements | Delays are common due to court schedules |
| Greater control over outcomes | Decisions are made by a judge |
Yes. mediation fees are generally charged per person, even when both parties attend the same joint session. This ensures the cost of the mediation process is shared fairly. During your free consultation, we’ll explain the fees applicable to your individual circumstances.
In most cases, yes. Mediation is usually more cost-effective than using lawyers or going to court, helping families resolve disputes more quickly while reducing legal costs and stress.
Yes. Bayside Mediation helps separating couples resolve property and financial matters, including the division of assets and liabilities, without the cost and delays of going to court.
You can learn more about financial and property mediation here.
The number of sessions varies depending on your circumstances. Some families reach agreement in one session, while others may need additional sessions. Your mediator will discuss the best approach during your intake appointment.
Yes. For many parenting matters, mediation is required before applying to court. If no agreement is reached, a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner may issue a Section 60I Certificate, allowing you to take the next legal step if required.
If you don’t reach an agreement, you still have options. Your mediator will discuss the next steps, which may include further mediation, legal advice, or court. For parenting matters, a Section 60I Certificate may be issued if the legal requirements are met. Even without a full agreement, mediation often helps narrow the issues and makes future negotiations easier.
Yes. Bayside Mediation offers a Fixed Fee Divorce Application service for $500* for eligible clients.
This service is separate from mediation and is designed to assist with the divorce application process. Contact us to discuss your circumstances and whether the fixed-fee service is suitable for you.
*Eligibility, conditions and any additional external fees may apply.
