What is a section 60I certificate and how do I get one?

A section 60I certificate is proof that you have made a genuine attempt to resolve your parenting dispute before going to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA).

What does it certify?

There are several types of s60I certificates an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) can issue:

1. Both parties attended and made a genuine attempt: You are free to file in court.
2. Both parties attended but one did not make a genuine attempt: This can have cost consequences in court.
3. One party failed to attend: You can then file in court without having completed mediation.
4. The practitioner decided FDR was not appropriate: For example, in cases of family violence or severe power imbalance.
5. One party attended but FDR was not appropriate: You can then proceed to court.

How do I get one?

You must engage an Accredited FDRP. Only a person who holds accreditation under the Family Law (Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners) Regulations 2008 (Cth) is authorised to issue these certificates.

Providers include:

• Private FDR practitioners: Faster process and more flexible scheduling.
• Family Relationship Centres (FRCs): Government-funded but often with long wait times.
• Relationships Australia Queensland: Subsidised services with waitlists.

How long is it valid?

A section 60I certificate is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. If you do not file your court application within this time, you may need to attempt mediation again.

What are the risks?

If a practitioner certifies that you attended but did not make a genuine attempt (e.g., by refusing to speak or being obstructive), a judge can order you to pay a portion of the other party’s legal costs.

Learn more about the mediation process: Mediation vs Court: Which is Faster in Queensland?

Speak to a family lawyer today. Bell & Senior Lawyers provides strategic advice on all family law pathways. Contact us for a confidential consultation.