How shuttle mediation works
At the start of a shuttle session, the mediator meets with each party separately to understand their position and priorities. The mediator then moves between the rooms, conveying offers and responses, identifying common ground, and working toward an agreement — without the parties ever being in the same space.
When shuttle mediation is used
- Where there is a history of family violence or coercive control
- Where high conflict makes joint sessions unproductive
- Where one or both parties find face-to-face contact distressing
- Where a power imbalance exists between the parties
- Online mediation — which is inherently shuttle-style by default
Shuttle vs joint mediation — which is better?
Joint sessions (where both parties are in the same room) can be more efficient and allow direct communication, which sometimes helps parties reach more nuanced agreements. Shuttle mediation takes longer and relies heavily on the mediator's skill in conveying proposals accurately. The right format depends on the circumstances — your FDRP will discuss this with you before the session.
Is shuttle mediation still family dispute resolution?
Yes. Shuttle mediation conducted by an accredited FDRP counts as family dispute resolution under the Family Law Act 1975. A Section 60I certificate can be issued following a shuttle session in the same way as a joint session.
Online shuttle mediation
Online mediation via secure video platform is increasingly common and offers a built-in shuttle format — each party joins from a separate location and the mediator manages separate video calls. See our guide to online mediation in Australia.
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