Parenting Mediation: Intake & Assessment Explained

Parenting Mediation: Intake & Assessment Explained

The Intake & Assessment appointment is the first formal step in the Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) process. Its purpose isn’t just administrative — it’s a professional risk‑screening and preparation stage designed to ensure that mediation is safe, appropriate, and genuinely useful for everyone involved.

What the Intake & Assessment is designed to achieve

• Determine whether mediation is suitable for your situation
• Identify any risks, including family violence, coercion, or safety concerns
• Understand the family dynamics, the children’s needs, and the history of the relationship
• Help you prepare emotionally and practically for mediation
• Provide referrals if mediation is not appropriate (e.g., legal advice, counselling, safety services)

It’s not a test, and it’s not about judging you. It’s about making sure the process is safe and productive.

What the mediator will ask about

Expect a structured conversation covering:

1. Your wellbeing and safety

• How you’re coping emotionally
• Any current or past family violence
• Concerns about coercion, intimidation, or control
• Whether you feel safe participating in mediation

This is essential because FDR is only suitable when both parties can negotiate freely and safely.

2. The history of the relationship

• How communication has been since separation
• Any patterns of conflict
• Whether there are ongoing legal or safety issues

This helps the mediator understand the context and power dynamics.

3. The children

• How they’re coping with the separation
• Their routines, needs, and relationships with each parent
• Any developmental, medical, or emotional concerns

The mediator’s role is child‑focused, so this part is central.

4. Your goals for mediation

• What outcomes you’re hoping for
• What arrangements you think are workable
• What you’re worried about

This helps the mediator plan the session and understand your priorities.

Documents the mediator may request

You may be asked to provide:

• Existing Family Court orders
• Family Violence Orders (AVOs, IVOs, DVOs, etc.)
• Any relevant parenting plans or written agreements
• Contact details for the other party (if you are the initiating party)

These documents help the mediator understand legal boundaries and safety requirements.

Your chance to assess the mediator

People often forget this part — the Intake is also for you.

You’re entitled to notice whether the mediator:

• Listens without interrupting
• Understands your concerns
• Explains the process clearly
• Makes you feel safe and respected
• Shows neutrality

If you don’t feel comfortable or don’t trust the mediator, you can absolutely request a different one. Mediation only works when you feel safe and heard.

When mediation may not be appropriate

The mediator may decide mediation is unsuitable if there is:

• Serious family violence
• High risk to safety
• Severe power imbalance
• No capacity for one or both parties to negotiate freely

In those cases, you may receive a s60I certificate and be referred to legal or support services.