Culturally Appropriate Mediation (LACA-FDR)

What is Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)?

FDR aims to help separating couples reach agreements that are in the best interests of their children. This may be an alternative to going to Family Court.

What is Legally Assisted Culturally Appropriate Family Dispute Resolution (LACA-FDR)?

• LACA-FDR is a supportive FDR process for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s.
• ‘Legally Assisted’, means that lawyers will be present during the FDR session to support each party.
• Sessions are managed by an independent and specially trained Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner or mediator.

Who is LACA-FDR for?

• Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander parents who have separated or are in the process of separating;
• Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander grandparents and family who wish to reconnect with children;
• Where there has been a history of Family and Domestic Violence; and
• There are children under the age of 18 years.

What you will receive for FREE as a LACA client:

Caseworker Support:

• Your caseworker will meet with you and provide you with culturally sensitive support throughout the process.

Information:  

• You will be provided with information on the FDR process, rights of children and parents responsibilities.

Referrals:

• You can be linked into appropriate services such as community support,counselling and legal advice.

Lawyer Representation:

• You will be allocated a lawyer who can advise you prior to and be with you throughout the FDR session/s.

Individual and Joint sessions

• Sessions with the FDR Practitioner to gather information and develop a parenting plan.

How do I get more information about this service?

You can call the Family Relationships Service on 6164 0300 or ask someone else to call for you.