Many Australians considering separation or divorce often wonder: does family mediation work?

It’s one of the most common questions we hear at Move On Mediation, as clients in Perth and across Western Australia seek reliable, efficient and low-stress paths through property and parenting negotiations after separation.

Family mediation isn’t just a hopeful alternative—it is one. Let’s explore why it’s a tried‑and‑tested approach – backed by strong success rates – and how family mediation might work for you.

Does Family Mediation Work?

Why Is Family Mediation Effective?

Family mediation works because it prioritises collaboration and co-operation over contention.

A neutral family mediator helps both parties communicate constructively, focusing on interests and solutions rather than assigning blame.

The process is informal, quick and cost-effective—freeing you from the drawn‑out stress and expense of court proceedings. Instead of a judge imposing outcomes after lawyers fight for opposing positions, you remain in control—deciding your future in a respectful, private setting.

Success Rates for Family Mediation

Australian family mediation delivers impressive success:

1. Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) – Evaluation of 2006 Family Law Reforms

• After mediation became mandatory for parenting disputes, FDR participation rose from around 14,300 to 22,400 clients within two years—a 57% increase
• Court applications relating to children and property dropped by approximately 22% between 2004–05 and 2008–09, indicating fewer families needed court intervention

2. Parenting Decisions Post–Separation (Australian Institute of Family Studies)

• About 97% of separated parents in Australia do not go to court to resolve parenting arrangements. Of them, around 16% used family dispute resolution or legal assistance. This shows FDR plays a meaningful role for many Australian families outside the courtroom.

3. Relationships Australia – Family Dispute Resolution Outcomes Study

• In a 2019 national study, approximately 65% of parents reached a full or partial agreement through family dispute resolution.
• Participation in FDR also reduced acrimony, improved communication and aided emotional adjustment—even among those who didn’t finalise agreements.

These are not courtroom figures—they’re real, human-centred outcomes showing that mediation works most of the time and is well regarded by participants.

When Is Family Mediation Appropriate?

Family mediation is most effective when:

• both parties are willing to work cooperatively;
• there isn’t a serious imbalance in power or a history of violence;
• communication, even if strained, remains possible.

It’s ideally suited to resolving parenting arrangements and dividing property. It’s usually faster, cheaper and less stressful than going to court.

Move On Mediation encourages early mediation—before court applications—to lock in agreements while assets are still clearly defined and easier to value and before arguments about arrangements for the kids become ingrained.

When Is Family Mediation Not Suitable?

Mediation may not be appropriate when:

• there is domestic violence or a significant power imbalance;
• one party is unwilling or unable to negotiate in good faith;
• complex financial issues or hidden assets are involved and a party is not disclosing an accurate financial position.

In such cases, a family mediator like Ian Shann can help assess whether mediation is safe and workable—or recommend legal processes instead.

So, to answer the question of does family mediation work: yes—family mediation does work. It resolves disputes in a cooperative way, with success rates between 65% and 90%, saves you time and money compared to court and reduces stress. Most importantly, it puts you in control of the outcome, not a judge.

If you’re in Perth or Western Australia and considering separation or divorce, we invite you to book a confidential call with Ian Shann at Move On Mediation. He’ll guide you through the family mediation process—offering expertise and support to help you settle property, parenting and future arrangements in the quickest, cheapest and least stressful way.

Ready to see how mediation could help you? Contact us today to take the first step forward.