Mediation Matters by Mediations Australia

Mediations Australia

Resolve Your Family Law Dispute—Faster, Better & Cheaper. The Mediations Australia podcast delivers jargon-free guidance on separation, divorce, property settlements, parenting plans, mediation, and more. Follow for bite-sized strategies, real-life insights, and cost-saving tips that turn a stressful breakup into a smoother, smarter resolution.

  1. De Facto Facts: Your Rights (and Risks) in Family Law

    DEC 11

    De Facto Facts: Your Rights (and Risks) in Family Law

    Think sharing a Netflix account and a mortgage makes you just “roommates with benefits”? Under Australian family law, it probably makes you partners in de facto relationships —with all the rights and obligations of a married couple.  In this episode of Mediation Matters, we unpack exactly what de facto status means, how the courts decide whether you’ve crossed the line from dating to domestic partnership, and—most importantly—how mediation can keep you out of a back-logged courtroom and in control of your own future.  🔍 Inside you’ll learn:  The legal checklist the courts use to label a relationship de facto (hint: it’s more than the two-year rule).Property & superannuation stakes: why “what’s mine is yours” suddenly applies—and how to divide the asset pool fairly.Children & parenting arrangements: identical rules to marriage, but often smoother through mediation.Time-bomb deadlines: the two-year window to start a property claim after separation.Binding Financial Agreements & Consent Orders: how a mediated deal becomes iron-clad under the Family Law Act. ⚖️ Why listen?   The family-law courts are bursting with a 30,000-case backlog. Family Law Mediation offers a faster, cheaper, less stressful path—and places the decision-making power back in your hands, not a judge’s. Ready for clarity? Book your free initial consultation with Mediations Australia and map out your best next step—before the clock (and your patience) runs out. Need Mediators ? Contact the team at Mediations Australia. This podcast has been produced by Law Firm Marketing Experts, Practice Proof All podcasts have been prepared by the Family Law Mediation experts, Mediations Australia for informational purposes only. The content shared does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. While we strive to ensure the information is accurate and current, Mediations Australia makes no guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or currency of any information provided. You should seek independent legal advice or other appropriate professional advice specific to your individual circumstances. The information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a mediator–client, lawyer–client, or any other professional relationship between you and Mediations Australia. Information provided may not reflect the most current legal or professional developments.

    11 min
  2. Separated Under One Roof: What You Need to Know

    DEC 11

    Separated Under One Roof: What You Need to Know

    Separated under one roof and still sharing a kitchen, hallway, and dealing with awkward silences? You're not alone—around 1 in 4 separating couples in Australia find themselves in exactly this situation. Whether it's the brutal housing market, keeping things stable for the kids, or waiting for a property settlement to finalise, moving out simply isn't an option for many people.  Here's what most people don't realise: you don't have to live at different addresses to be legally separated. Australian family law recognises that couples can be genuinely separated while still under the same roof. But—and this is crucial—you need to be able to prove it. And that's where things can go sideways if you're not careful.  In this video, we unpack the legal requirements for separation under one roof, including what the courts actually look for: separate finances, independent daily routines, different sleeping arrangements, and evidence that friends and family are aware the relationship has ended. We also dive into the Centrelink SS293 form—one of the most common hurdles for separated couples—and reveal the mistakes that delay applications by weeks (vague statements, outdated bank statements, missing signatures, and contradictory information).  Beyond the paperwork, we tackle the emotional and practical realities of cohabiting with an ex-partner. You'll learn how to establish clear boundaries, divide shared spaces, communicate without escalation, and why mediation can be a game-changer for creating workable household arrangements without the cost and stress of court.  This isn't just about surviving separation—it's about protecting your legal entitlements and mental wellbeing while you navigate this transitional phase.  📞 Need guidance tailored to your situation? Mediations Australia offers FREE consultations Australia-wide. Our nationally accredited mediators work alongside experienced family lawyers to help you establish boundaries, sort out financial matters fairly, and find common ground—even when you're still sharing a roof.  👉 Book your free consultation: www.mediationsaustralia.com.au Need Mediators ? Contact the team at Mediations Australia. This podcast has been produced by Law Firm Marketing Experts, Practice Proof All podcasts have been prepared by the Family Law Mediation experts, Mediations Australia for informational purposes only. The content shared does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. While we strive to ensure the information is accurate and current, Mediations Australia makes no guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or currency of any information provided. You should seek independent legal advice or other appropriate professional advice specific to your individual circumstances. The information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a mediator–client, lawyer–client, or any other professional relationship between you and Mediations Australia. Information provided may not reflect the most current legal or professional developments.

    9 min
  3. How Much Does a Family Lawyer Cost in Australia?

    DEC 10

    How Much Does a Family Lawyer Cost in Australia?

    How Much Does a Family Lawyer  Cost in Australia? (The Truth Will Shock You)  💔 Searching "family lawyer cost" at 2am? You're not alone — and you deserve to know the REAL numbers before making any decisions.  In this podcast, we break down the true cost of family law in Australia — from hourly rates to hidden fees — and reveal the smarter alternative that could save you up to 95% on legal costs.  What You'll Learn:  ⚖️ Average family law matter costs ($30,000 - $300,000+ exposed)  💰 Hourly rates breakdown: Junior solicitors vs. Senior partners  📍 How your location affects what you pay  🔑 The 12 factors that determine YOUR final bill  ✅ Mediation vs. litigation: A side-by-side cost comparison  👨‍👩‍👧 Why this matters even MORE when children are involved  The Bottom Line? Mediation: $2,500 - $5,000 TOTAL  Litigation: $30,000 - $100,000+ PER PERSON  Same outcome. Fraction of the cost. Days instead of years.   📞 Book your FREE consultation: mediationsaustralia.com.au  🆘 Experiencing family violence? Call 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 Need Mediators ? Contact the team at Mediations Australia. This podcast has been produced by Law Firm Marketing Experts, Practice Proof All podcasts have been prepared by the Family Law Mediation experts, Mediations Australia for informational purposes only. The content shared does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. While we strive to ensure the information is accurate and current, Mediations Australia makes no guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or currency of any information provided. You should seek independent legal advice or other appropriate professional advice specific to your individual circumstances. The information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a mediator–client, lawyer–client, or any other professional relationship between you and Mediations Australia. Information provided may not reflect the most current legal or professional developments.

    10 min
  4. Five Things to Do Before Uttering, 'I Want a Divorce'

    DEC 8

    Five Things to Do Before Uttering, 'I Want a Divorce'

    💰 The average contested divorce in Australia costs tens of thousands—some cases exceed $100,000 and drag on for YEARS. But here's the truth: it really doesn't have to be that way.  The couples who come out strongest aren't the wealthiest or most legally aggressive. They're the ones who prepared early and chose collaboration over combat.  In this podcast, we reveal the practical financial steps you need to take BEFORE separation to protect yourself, your family, and your future—whether you're just starting to worry or already facing the end of a marriage.  Here's what we cover:  ✅ Mapping your complete financial picture (assets, super & debts)  ✅ Why your own bank account is a non-negotiable safety net  ✅ The credit check most people forget until it's too late  ✅ Why timing matters more than you think  ✅ How mediation saves money, time, and relationships  When you're prepared, you have options. When you have options, you have power.  📩 Considering separation? Explore family law mediation before the battle lines are drawn. At Mediations Australia, we help families resolve disputes faster, more affordably, and with far less conflict.  👇 Questions about divorce, separation, or mediation in Australia? Drop them in the comments—we read every one.  If this helped, hit SUBSCRIBE and tap the 🔔 for more guidance on navigating family transitions with your finances and dignity intact. Need Mediators ? Contact the team at Mediations Australia. This podcast has been produced by Law Firm Marketing Experts, Practice Proof All podcasts have been prepared by the Family Law Mediation experts, Mediations Australia for informational purposes only. The content shared does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. While we strive to ensure the information is accurate and current, Mediations Australia makes no guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or currency of any information provided. You should seek independent legal advice or other appropriate professional advice specific to your individual circumstances. The information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a mediator–client, lawyer–client, or any other professional relationship between you and Mediations Australia. Information provided may not reflect the most current legal or professional developments.

    14 min
  5. Kennon v Spry: The Latest on Family Trusts & Family Law

    DEC 2

    Kennon v Spry: The Latest on Family Trusts & Family Law

    Kennon v Spry — What It Means for Family Trusts & Property Settlements  Discover why the landmark High Court case Kennon v Spry changed the way Australian courts treat family trusts during divorce and separation. In this video we unpack how and when discretionary-trust assets can be included in the marital property pool — and why that matters for couples, families and financial planning.  📌 What you’ll learn  How control and benefit over a trust can make its assets part of the “property pool” subject to division. Why attempts to restructure a trust during separation may be reversed under Family Law Act 1975 (or subsequent amendments). When trust assets — even if not fully included in the property pool — can still be treated as a “financial resource” relevant to a settlement.Why family law mediation often makes more sense than litigation for resolving trust-related family law disputes.  ⚖️ Why it matters   For many Australians, placing assets in a family trust has been viewed as a form of asset protection. But Kennon v Spry showed that when one spouse has effective control and there is a realistic potential benefit, the trust may be treated like marital property — radically shifting the financial stakes of separation or divorce.    If you or someone you know is dealing with a family trust and separation, it’s crucial to understand these legal principles — and consider mediation as a constructive, cost-effective alternative to litigation. Need Mediators ? Contact the team at Mediations Australia. This podcast has been produced by Law Firm Marketing Experts, Practice Proof All podcasts have been prepared by the Family Law Mediation experts, Mediations Australia for informational purposes only. The content shared does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. While we strive to ensure the information is accurate and current, Mediations Australia makes no guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or currency of any information provided. You should seek independent legal advice or other appropriate professional advice specific to your individual circumstances. The information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a mediator–client, lawyer–client, or any other professional relationship between you and Mediations Australia. Information provided may not reflect the most current legal or professional developments.

    10 min
  6. Workplace Disputes Are Surging — Here's Why

    DEC 1

    Workplace Disputes Are Surging — Here's Why

    📈 Why are workplace disputes in Australia surging — and what can you actually do about it?  The Fair Work Commission just dropped some eye-opening numbers: 44,075 lodgements this year alone. That's a 10% jump. Unfair dismissal claims? Over 16,000. Anonymous tip-offs to the Fair Work Ombudsman? Up 50%. Something's shifting in Australian workplaces, and most people haven't noticed yet.  In this podcast, we break down:  ⚡ The 3 key reasons workplace disputes are climbing fast  ⚡ Why hybrid work and flexible arrangements are creating new friction  ⚡ The hidden costs of letting conflict fester (hint: it's not just money)  ⚡ How early workplace mediation can resolve disputes in hours — not months  ⚡ A real case study: a workplace mess sorted in just 3 hours  Whether you're an employer navigating a tricky situation or an employee who feels unheard, this video gives you the insights to take control before things escalate.  🔗 Need help resolving a workplace dispute? Visit Mediations Australia: www.mediationsaustralia.com.au Need Mediators ? Contact the team at Mediations Australia. This podcast has been produced by Law Firm Marketing Experts, Practice Proof All podcasts have been prepared by the Family Law Mediation experts, Mediations Australia for informational purposes only. The content shared does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. While we strive to ensure the information is accurate and current, Mediations Australia makes no guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or currency of any information provided. You should seek independent legal advice or other appropriate professional advice specific to your individual circumstances. The information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a mediator–client, lawyer–client, or any other professional relationship between you and Mediations Australia. Information provided may not reflect the most current legal or professional developments.

    6 min
  7. Why Consent Orders Are So Good

    DEC 1

    Why Consent Orders Are So Good

    Your verbal agreement means NOTHING without this step. 😬  You've done the hard work. You've negotiated with your ex about the house, the children, the debts. You've finally reached an agreement. But here's what most separating couples in Australia don't realise — that agreement isn't worth the paper it's written on.  A verbal agreement? Unenforceable. A parenting plan? Valid, but if your ex stops following it, your options are limited. Even a written agreement between you both carries almost no legal weight.  Enter consent orders.  A consent order transforms your agreement into a legally binding court order — with the same power as if a judge handed it down after a trial. No courtroom drama. No expensive legal battle. Just protection, certainty, and peace of mind.   📌 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS PODCAST:  ✅ What consent orders actually are (and aren't)  ✅ Why verbal and written agreements fail when things go wrong  ✅ Exactly what consent orders can cover — parenting AND property  ✅ The surprisingly simple application process  ✅ Real costs revealed: between $2k and $5k plus $205 filing fee + 6-8 weeks processing  ✅ Consequences of breaching consent orders (yes, imprisonment is possible)  ✅ Critical time limits that could lock you out forever  ✅ How mediation helps you reach agreement faster Need Mediators ? Contact the team at Mediations Australia. This podcast has been produced by Law Firm Marketing Experts, Practice Proof All podcasts have been prepared by the Family Law Mediation experts, Mediations Australia for informational purposes only. The content shared does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. While we strive to ensure the information is accurate and current, Mediations Australia makes no guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or currency of any information provided. You should seek independent legal advice or other appropriate professional advice specific to your individual circumstances. The information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a mediator–client, lawyer–client, or any other professional relationship between you and Mediations Australia. Information provided may not reflect the most current legal or professional developments.

    6 min
  8. The Shocking Truth About the Family Law System

    OCT 8

    The Shocking Truth About the Family Law System

    What happens when family law disputes turn into drawn-out courtroom battles? In this episode, we uncover the hidden casualties of Australia’s Family Court system—the children.  💔 While parents and lawyers focus on winning, children are often left feeling powerless, anxious, and caught in a storm that was never theirs to begin with. Research from the Whitlam Institute and experts across the field reveal just how damaging prolonged litigation can be—not just financially, but emotionally.  ✨ But there’s hope. We’ll explore how mediation offers a better path forward: faster, less expensive, and centred on children’s wellbeing. Instead of fuelling conflict, mediation empowers parents to collaborate and create solutions that truly work for their families.  In this episode, you’ll learn:  Why prolonged litigation amplifies children’s traumaThe financial and emotional costs of adversarial court battlesHow mediation keeps families in control and protects kidsWhen mediation works—and when it doesn’t ⚠️ If you’re facing family violence or safety concerns, please reach out to 1800 RESPECT or the NSW Domestic Violence Line. Safety comes first.   👉 Learn more about alternatives to litigation: mediationsaustralia.com.au Need Mediators ? Contact the team at Mediations Australia. This podcast has been produced by Law Firm Marketing Experts, Practice Proof All podcasts have been prepared by the Family Law Mediation experts, Mediations Australia for informational purposes only. The content shared does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. While we strive to ensure the information is accurate and current, Mediations Australia makes no guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or currency of any information provided. You should seek independent legal advice or other appropriate professional advice specific to your individual circumstances. The information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a mediator–client, lawyer–client, or any other professional relationship between you and Mediations Australia. Information provided may not reflect the most current legal or professional developments.

    10 min

About

Resolve Your Family Law Dispute—Faster, Better & Cheaper. The Mediations Australia podcast delivers jargon-free guidance on separation, divorce, property settlements, parenting plans, mediation, and more. Follow for bite-sized strategies, real-life insights, and cost-saving tips that turn a stressful breakup into a smoother, smarter resolution.