Section 60I Certificates
Understand the process and take the next step with Northern Frontiers Mediation.
If you cannot agree on parenting arrangements, or the other parent is unwilling to attend mediation, you may be wondering whether you need a section 60I certificate.
Northern Frontiers Mediation can help you understand the Family Dispute Resolution process, assess whether mediation is appropriate, explain when a certificate may be issued and issue s60I certificates when appropriate. Phone and video appointments make our services accessible across Australia.
Call: 1300 90 81 70, Text or Call: 0419 531 269, Email: reception@northernfrontiers.com.au
Contact us now to get started or ask a question.
What is a section 60I certificate?
A section 60I certificate is a document issued by an accredited Family Dispute Resolution practitioner under the Family Law Act 1975. It records the relevant outcome of attending, or attempting, Family Dispute Resolution about parenting matters.
You will generally need a current certificate when applying to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia for disputed parenting orders, unless an exemption applies.
A certificate does not decide parenting arrangements or require you to go to court. You can still explore an agreement through other options.
When can a certificate be issued?
Depending on the circumstances, a practitioner may issue a certificate recording that:
- Another person refused or failed to attend.
- Family Dispute Resolution was assessed as inappropriate.
- Everyone attended and made a genuine effort to resolve the issues.
- Everyone attended, but one or more participants did not make a genuine effort.
- Family Dispute Resolution began but was assessed as inappropriate to continue.
The practitioner determines which category applies. A certificate is not automatically issued simply because it is requested, by either party, or their solicitor.
How Northern Frontiers Mediation can help
Uncertainty about parenting arrangements can be stressful. Our team can explain the process and help you understand your next step.
- Make an enquiry
Tell us briefly about your parenting matter. We can explain appointments, fees and what the process involves. - Complete an intake and suitability assessment
The practitioner considers your circumstances, including safety concerns and whether mediation is appropriate. - Take part in the appropriate next steps
Where appropriate, the other person is invited to participate and mediation is arranged. - Understand the outcome
If agreement is reached, parenting arrangements can be recorded. Where the requirements are met, the practitioner may issue a section 60I certificate.
What if the other parent refuses mediation?
You can contact Northern Frontiers Mediation even if the other parent has not agreed to participate in a mediation process, or is taking too long to decide.
A refusal or failure to attend may allow a practitioner to issue a certificate after the required contact and assessment steps, and invitation period, have been completed. Our team can explain what is needed in your circumstances, and we are flexible where possible, and appropriate.
What if mediation is unsafe or unsuitable?
Tell the practitioner about family violence, concerns for a child’s safety or anything affecting your ability to participate in the mediation process freely.
Suitability is assessed before and throughout mediation. A Family Dispute Resolution practitioner (Mediator) may decide that mediation should not begin or continue, and issue a s60I certificate at any point, and without providing reasons (due to confidentiality requirements).
Some circumstances may also support an application to the court for an exemption from the certificate requirement. A family lawyer can advise you about exemptions and urgent court options.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a certificate without attending a joint mediation session?
In some circumstances, yes—for example, where another person refuses to attend or the practitioner assesses mediation as inappropriate. The required process must still be followed, including the completion of a formal Intake & Assessment session, not just an initial enquiry with our Reception team.
How long does the process take?
Timing depends on assessment, contact with the other person and whether mediation proceeds. Contact Northern Frontiers Mediation for current availability and an explanation of the steps relevant to your matter. If both parties make themselves available, and the Mediator advises it is appropriate to continue, we can complete mediation processes within 2-3 weeks. Please advise Reception if your matter is, for a suitable reason, urgent.
How much does it cost?
A formal Intake & Assessment session costs $320 per party, and this fee includes a section 60I certificate when appropriate.
Do I need a s60I certificate for property settlement or divorce?
A section 60I certificate concerns parenting matters. It is not required for a divorce application or an application seeking only property or financial orders. Other requirements may apply and please seek suitably qualified legal advice.
Do I have to go to court after receiving a certificate?
No. Receiving a certificate does not require you to start court proceedings. Seek legal advice about your options if parenting issues remain unresolved.
How long is a section 60I certificate valid?
A section 60I certificate relates to Family Dispute Resolution that was attended or attempted within the previous 12 months. If more than 12 months has passed since the relevant FDR was attended or attempted, a practitioner cannot issue a certificate for that earlier process and further Family Dispute Resolution may be required.
Speak with Northern Frontiers Mediation
Whether you are ready to begin mediation or simply need to understand the certificate process, contact our team.
Call: 1300 90 81 70
Text or Call: 0419 531 269
Email: reception@northernfrontiers.com.au
Contact us now to get started or ask a question.
This page provides general information, not legal advice. Certificates are issued by accredited Family Dispute Resolution practitioners where the relevant requirements are met. Different certificate provisions may apply to some families in Western Australia.
Got a question or three?
Contact our Reception and confidentially discuss your situation today. Call 1300 90 81 70, send a detailed text message to Client Mobile 0419 531 269, email reception@northernfrontiers.com.au or use the online chat feature at the bottom right of this webpage to speak with someone now. Don't worry, there is no obligation to make a booking, and we are happy to answer any questions you have if you are just researching different providers.
It is important to us that prospective clients have full information prior to engaging our services. To assist this, all our services have a specific brochure, that includes full pricing and process information. If ever in doubt, or have a question, just speak with our Reception team.
Phone
Toll Free 1300 90 81 70
Mobile: 0419 531 269 (send us a text message if easier)
LiveChat: If you have any questions about our services and don't have time to ring or email, feel free to use the LiveChat function (available on each webpage).
Opening Hours
Mon-Fri: 6.30 am – 5.00 pm, by appointment only. Last-minute sessions are available for urgent matters. Please advise your circumstances and we can prioritise your matter as appropriate.