When parents separate or disagree about their children’s care, the court often asks for a s60I certificate before hearing the case. This certificate is an important step in the family dispute resolution process. It shows that both parties have tried to solve their parenting issues through mediation before going to court.
If you want to understand what an s60I certificate means, how to get one, and why it matters, this simple guide will help you. You can also learn more about family mediation from Investigation & Mediation.
What Is an s60I Certificate?
An s60I certificate is a legal document issued by a Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) practitioner. It confirms that you and the other parent have either:
- Attended family dispute resolution and tried to reach an agreement, or
- Did not attend mediation for a valid reason, such as one party refusing or being unable to participate.
This certificate is required under section 60I of the Family Law Act 1975. The court needs it before starting a parenting case. It proves that both parties have made a genuine effort to settle their differences outside of court.
You can read more about how family mediation works in this helpful guide: What Is Family Mediation and Family Dispute Resolution.
Why Is the Family Dispute Resolution Certificate Important?
The family dispute resolution certificate plays a key role in family law. The Australian government wants parents to try solving conflicts peacefully before turning to the court system.
This process gives parents a chance to:
- Talk openly in a safe environment.
- Focus on the best interests of their children.
- Save time, stress, and money by avoiding court.
If both parents attend mediation and reach an agreement, they can create a parenting plan. But if mediation fails, the FDR practitioner can issue an s60I certificate so that you can apply to the court if necessary.
For a step-by-step explanation of how mediation happens, visit this post: Family Mediation Process in Carlingford: Step-by-Step Guide.
When Do You Need an s60I Certificate?
You need an s60I certificate if you want to apply to the court for parenting orders. The court will usually not hear your case without it.
However, there are some exceptions. You may not need a certificate if:
- The matter is urgent (for example, a child’s safety is at risk).
- There has been family violence or child abuse.
- One parent cannot be found or is unable to attend mediation.
In most cases, though, the FDR certificate requirement applies. This ensures both parents at least try to find common ground before starting a court case.
Who Issues the FDR Certificate?
Only an accredited Family Dispute Resolution practitioner can issue the s60I certificate. These practitioners are trained professionals who help parents discuss issues calmly and fairly.
During the session, the practitioner helps both sides:
- Listen to each other’s concerns.
- Focus on what is best for their children.
- Explore possible solutions.
If you cannot reach an agreement, the practitioner will issue one of five types of certificates under section 60I, depending on what happened during mediation.
You can always talk to the team at Investigation & Mediation to find a registered practitioner near you.
Types of s60I Certificates
There are five types of s60I certificates:
- Did not attend mediation because the other party refused or failed to attend.
- Did not attend because the practitioner considered it inappropriate (for example, due to safety concerns).
- Both parties attended and made a genuine effort.
- Both parties attended, but one did not make a genuine effort.
- Both parties started mediation, but it was not finished.
Each certificate has a different meaning. However, all serve as proof that mediation was at least attempted or considered before going to court.
What Happens After Receiving the s60I Certificate?
Once you receive the s60I certificate, you can decide what to do next.
- If you and the other parent reached an agreement, you can turn it into a parenting plan or consent order.
- If no agreement was reached, you may use the certificate to start a court application.
Keep in mind that the certificate is valid for 12 months from the date it was issued. This means you must file your court application within that time.
You can also read how mediation helps in specific situations, such as Parenting Mediation in Carlingford: Resolving Parenting Disputes.
How to Get an s60I Certificate Through Mediation
Here’s a simple process to get your s60I certificate:
- Contact an accredited FDR practitioner. You can find one through a local family mediation service.
- Attend an intake session. This helps the practitioner understand your situation and check if mediation is suitable.
- Attend the mediation meeting. The practitioner will guide both parents in discussing and resolving issues.
- Receive your s60I certificate. You’ll get the document whether you reach an agreement or not.
The process is simple and designed to support both parents.
If you want to book a confidential mediation session today, visit Book Your Mediation.
Benefits of Mediation Before Going to Court
Getting an s60I certificate through mediation offers many benefits:
- Peaceful resolution: Mediation focuses on cooperation, not conflict.
- Faster outcomes: You can resolve issues more quickly than waiting for a court hearing.
- Child-focused approach: The process keeps the well-being of your children as the main priority.
- Cost-effective: Mediation is usually much cheaper than going to court.
- Private and flexible: You can speak freely without the pressure of a courtroom setting.
These advantages make the family dispute resolution certificate process a valuable first step for separated parents.
Conclusion
Understanding the s60I certificate is essential for anyone facing parenting disputes after separation. It’s not just a legal requirement — it’s a chance to find solutions peacefully and protect your children’s well-being.
At Investigation & Mediation, professional Family Dispute Resolution practitioners can help you every step of the way. From guiding you through mediation to issuing your family dispute resolution certificate, they ensure the process is respectful, fair, and supportive.
If you’re ready to take the next step, book your mediation today.
By choosing Investigation & Mediation, you’re choosing experience, understanding, and the best approach to resolve family matters without unnecessary conflict.