Family Law & Divorce

Section 60I Certificate

Also known as: 60I certificate, FDR certificate

In plain English

A certificate from a family dispute resolution practitioner showing you tried mediation. You usually need it before applying to court about children.

What it means

A section 60I certificate is issued by an accredited family dispute resolution practitioner under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth). It confirms what happened with mediation, for example that a party did not attend, that the parties attended and made a genuine effort, or that the matter was not suitable for FDR. You generally must file a section 60I certificate with any parenting application. Exceptions apply in cases of family violence, child abuse risk, urgency, or incapacity. The certificate does not record what was discussed; FDR discussions are confidential.

How it's used

When the other parent refused to attend mediation, the practitioner issued a section 60I certificate so the application could proceed.

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