Before applying to court for parenting orders, most families must attempt mediation and obtain a Section 60I Certificate. This certificate confirms that mediation was attempted or deemed unsuitable. Working with an accredited practitioner ensures the process is safe, structured, and compliant with the Family Law Act 1975.
Parenting disputes can feel overwhelming, particularly when emotions are high and decisions affect your children’s future. For many families, the law requires an attempt at mediation before court proceedings can begin. Understanding what is mediation in family law and how a Section 60I Certificate fits into that framework is an important first step.
Under the Family Law Act 1975, most parties must attempt family mediation before filing for parenting orders in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. A Section 60I Certificate confirms whether mediation occurred or whether it was assessed as unsuitable. At Summit Conflict Resolution, mediation is delivered by an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner with extensive legal experience, ensuring families receive informed and child focused guidance throughout the process.
What Is a Section 60I Certificate?
A Section 60I Certificate is a formal document issued by a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner. In most parenting disputes, it must accompany any application filed with the court.
The certificate confirms one of the following:
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One party did not attend
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Mediation was assessed as unsuitable
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Both parties attended but did not reach agreement
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A genuine effort was not made
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An agreement was reached
This requirement reflects the court’s strong preference for resolving disputes outside litigation wherever possible. It supports structured dispute resolution and encourages parents to explore practical, child focused solutions before turning to the court.
When Is a Section 60I Certificate Required?
A certificate is required when applying for parenting orders involving:
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Living arrangements
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Time with each parent
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Relocation disputes
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Schooling or medical decisions
However, exemptions apply in certain circumstances. For example, urgent matters involving immediate risk to a child, situations involving serious family violence, or cases where both parties agree to Consent Orders may not require prior mediation.
Because each matter is unique, it is important to seek advice from an accredited practitioner to determine whether mediation is appropriate or whether an exemption may apply.
The Intake Process: Assessing Suitability
Before mediation begins, an intake session takes place. This step forms part of our process, ensuring that mediation is both safe and appropriate.
During intake, the practitioner will:
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Discuss the nature of the dispute
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Screen for safety concerns or power imbalances
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Explain the structure, timing, and costs of mediation
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Determine whether to proceed or issue a certificate
Each party attends intake separately. This allows concerns to be raised privately and ensures informed decisions are made about suitability.
If mediation is not appropriate due to safety risks or other concerns, a certificate can be issued without proceeding further.
What Happens If Mediation Does Not Resolve Everything?
If mediation does not result in full agreement, a Section 60I Certificate will be issued. This allows a party to proceed to court.
After receiving the certificate, the next steps typically include filing an Initiating Application, preparing supporting documents, and obtaining legal advice. Even where full agreement is not reached, mediation often narrows the issues in dispute and improves clarity around parenting arrangements. Partial agreements can be documented, which may simplify later proceedings.
While some matters ultimately require judicial determination, many families still benefit from the structure and clarity that mediation provides.
Expert Guidance with Section 60I Certificates
Understanding why to choose mediation before litigation often comes down to structure, cost, and long term stability for children. Mediation offers a confidential and professionally guided environment where parents retain control over decision making.
At Summit Conflict Resolution, mediation is led by Janelle Rollo, an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, practising solicitor, and Independent Children’s Lawyer with nearly two decades of family law experience. Her background ensures that discussions remain grounded in legal reality while maintaining strict neutrality.
Professional services include:
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Comprehensive intake screening
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Structured half day and full day mediation sessions
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Prompt issuing of Section 60I Certificates when required
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Clear documentation of agreements
This combination of legal insight and mediation expertise provides families with confidence that the process aligns with court expectations while prioritising children’s wellbeing.
Contact Cummit Conflict Resolution
A Section 60I Certificate is more than a procedural requirement. It reflects Australia’s commitment to resolving parenting disputes in a structured and child focused way before litigation becomes necessary.
If you are navigating a parenting dispute and need guidance through mediation or the Section 60I process, Summit Conflict Resolution can assist with clarity and professionalism.
To take the next step, book an appointment today.
