Resolving family disputes

We have a service that helps parents who are going through a separation or divorce to resolve their family disputes. It is called Roundtable Dispute Management (RDM).

What is RDM?
Why should I use RDM?
How can RDM help me?
Who can use RDM?
How much does RDM cost?
How does RDM work?
Who can attend the conference?
Do my children get a say?
Is the service confidential?
What if I feel unsafe?

What is RDM?

RDM can help you work out solutions to your family law disputes. These disputes may be about parenting, maintenance and financial arrangements.

Why should I use RDM?

We can help you have more control over the decisions that affect your family’s future. Our service can save you time, stress and costly court action. Also the law says that you should usually try to resolve disputes about parenting matters before you go to court.

How can RDM help me?

We can help you:

• work out decisions that support your children’s needs
• develop a parenting plan or court order which sets out arrangements for the care of your children
• sort out financial issues, such as child support for children over 18 years old
• improve family communication and cooperation
• reach solutions that work for you.

Who can use RDM?

To use RDM, at least one of the people involved in the family dispute must apply and get a grant of legal assistance from Victoria Legal Aid (VLA). For more information speak to your lawyer or see Funding cases.

How much does RDM cost?

The service is free. However, you may have to pay for your lawyer’s fees. You can use RDM without a lawyer, but we recommend getting legal advice. We can also help you find a lawyer.

If you can't afford a lawyer, you can apply for a grant of legal assistance. For more information contact us or see Funding cases.

How does RDM work?

A case manager will assess whether RDM is right for you. If you are invited to use the service, your case manager will help you prepare for the RDM conference. The conference is run by an experienced chairperson to help you sort out your family disputes. You may need a second conference. Your case manager will offer you support after your RDM conference.

Are children involved in RDM?

All decisions are focussed on your children's needs. However, children can't attend the conference and RDM doesn't provide childcare. Sometimes, if everyone agrees, RDM can arrange for children to speak to a qualified child consultant. We call this Kid's Talk. Speak to RDM or your lawyer for more information.

Is the conference confidential?

Any information you give is confidential and can't be used in court. It is a serious offience to disclose confidential information and penalties apply.

This rule does not apply where RDM:

• is concerned for a child's welfare
• forms a reasonable belief that a person or property is at risk
• becomes aware of possible fraud or a criminal act.

What if I don't feel safe?

We can make sure the conference takes place in a safe environment. For example, we can arrange a telephone conference or separate rooms so you do not have to have contact with the other person. Tell us if you are worried about your safety. We want you to feel safe.

Where can I attend a conference?

You can attend a conference at many locations throughout Victoria. If we don't have a location near you we can also arrange a telephone conference from anywhere in Australia. Call us to find out how we can help you.

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