Services

• Family Dispute Resolution
• Information sessions and workshops
• Referrals

Note: these centres generally do not offer counselling unless in partnership with another agency.

Family Relationship Centres offer a range of services and programs, which are aimed at families at all stages of their life.

Centres have a focus on providing family dispute resolution (mediation) to enable separating families achieve workable parenting arrangements outside the Court system. Many of the services are free or are offered on a sliding scale, according to your level of income.

Each Family Relationship Centre (FRC) works collaboratively with, and provides referrals to, a variety of other services, matching the needs of the family or individuals to appropriate services. Family Relationship Centres offer individual and joint sessions to assist separating families to create workable parenting arrangements for their children. They also host group information sessions and workshops on a range of practical topics to assist families.

Family dispute resolution (FDR) provides an opportunity for parents to engage in a conversation about how they can each support the best interests of their children. This process also includes a discussion about how parents can share decision-making about their child's welfare and well-being. A qualified practitioner assists each parent to tell their story and enables both parents the opportunity to reach mutually-satisfactory decisions about their children. See locations.

Links

Key statewide services that you may find useful:

• Centrelink
• Child Support Agency
• Domestic Violence Resource Centre
• Kids Helpline
• Mensline
• Parentline Victoria
• Victoria Legal Aid

Other key services

Domestic Violence Crisis Service
Ph: 03 9322 3555
Toll free: 1800 015 188

Telephone Dispute Resolution Service - access this national service by contacting the Family Relationship Advice Line on 1800 050 321.