Key takeaway: Private family mediation in Australia typically ranges from around $2,000 to $7,000 in total, commonly shared between the parties — often $3,000–$4,500 for a full mediation day. Free and low-cost government-funded options exist through Family Relationship Centres. Either way, mediation costs a fraction of the tens of thousands per side that contested litigation can run.
How much does it actually cost?
Private family mediation generally costs somewhere between $2,000 and $7,000 in total, depending on the provider and complexity — often around $3,000 to $4,500 for a full day of mediation plus the agreement. Crucially, that's usually shared between the parties, so each person's share is lower again. Compare that to the FCFCOA fee schedule court fees plus legal costs of litigation, and the difference is dramatic.
| Item | Typical total cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Intake / pre-mediation session | $200–$500 per person | Separate confidential meeting with the mediator |
| Half-day mediation | $1,500–$3,000 | Suits simpler parenting or property matters |
| Full-day mediation | $3,000–$5,000 | Most common; usually shared between the parties |
| Section 60I certificate | Often included | Issued for parenting matters where required |
| Consent orders drafting | $700–$2,500 | Optional step to make the agreement binding |
These are indicative ranges, not a quote — your actual cost depends on the factors below, and a good provider gives you a clear fixed fee before you start.
Want a clear, fixed quote for your situation? Book a consultation and we'll explain exactly what it costs.
Book a free consultation →What affects the cost?
- Complexity — a simple parenting plan costs less than a complex property pool with businesses.
- Number of sessions — most matters resolve in one, but some need more.
- In person vs online — online mediation can reduce costs.
- Whether lawyers attend — optional, and adds cost if you choose to have yours present.
- Formalising the agreement — consent orders or an agreement are an additional, modest step.
Who pays for mediation?
In most family mediations, the cost is shared equally between the parties — it's a joint process to reach a joint resolution, so splitting the fee is the norm. That said, the parties can agree a different arrangement, and in some cases one party covers more. This is something the mediator clarifies upfront so there are no surprises. See our transparent fee structure →
Free and low-cost options
Cost should never be a barrier to resolving a family dispute. Government-funded Family Relationships Online (Family Relationship Centres) offer family dispute resolution at free or low cost, particularly for parenting matters, with fees often based on income. These services are a valuable option, though private mediation typically offers more flexibility, faster scheduling, and capacity for complex financial matters.
How it compares to court
This is the comparison that matters most. A contested court case can cost each party tens of thousands of dollars — sometimes over $100,000 in complex matters — over one to three years. Mediation resolves the same dispute for a few thousand dollars total, in weeks. The money saved stays with your family instead of funding a prolonged court case. See the full cost of divorce breakdown →
| Mediation | Contested court case | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | A few thousand dollars total, often shared | Tens of thousands per side |
| Timeframe | Weeks | One to three years |
| Who decides | You and your former partner | A judge |
| Privacy | Private and confidential | Public court process |
Why spend tens of thousands fighting when mediation costs a fraction? Book a consultation today.
Book a free consultation →Why it's worth it
Beyond the raw numbers, mediation delivers value litigation can't: it's faster, it's private, it preserves co-parenting relationships, and it leaves you in control of the outcome. When you weigh the financial cost against the emotional cost of a prolonged court fight, mediation isn't just the cheaper option — it's the better one. See how mediation works →