Legal help and support services for separated parents in Australia

When you are separating, the questions arrive faster than the answers. Where do we start with arrangements for the kids? Do we need a lawyer? What if we can't agree? And for some parents, the most urgent question of all: what do I do if I don't feel safe?

There is a lot of help available in Australia, much of it free, but it is spread across government services, legal services and community organisations. This guide brings it into one place, starting with the services open to every family.

Last checked: 30 September 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. Family law and services differ between states and territories, so check with a lawyer about your own situation.

If you or your children are not safe

Start here. Mediation and co-parenting advice are not the right first step when there is family violence or a risk to anyone's safety.

• 000: call in an emergency, or if you or your children are in immediate danger.
• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732, or text 0458 737 732. The national family, domestic and sexual violence counselling service, available 24/7. 1800respect.org.au
• Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800. Free counselling for children and young people, 24/7. kidshelpline.com.au
• MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78. Free telephone counselling for men, including on relationships, separation and family violence, 24/7. mensline.org.au

Free information and support for separating families

• Family Relationship Advice Line: 1800 050 321. A national telephone service for families affected by relationship or separation issues. It can give you information and point you to services near you.
• Family Relationships Online: the Australian Government's website for separating families, with information, a search for local services, and details of your nearest Family Relationship Centre. familyrelationships.gov.au
• Family Relationship Centres: local centres that provide information about family relationships at every stage, including help working out arrangements after separation. Contact your nearest centre to ask what they offer and what it costs.
• Relationships Australia: 1300 364 277. Offers family dispute resolution (mediation), counselling, and family support and education programs, with services in every state and territory. relationships.org.au

Mediation and family dispute resolution

Family dispute resolution, often called FDR, is mediation for separated families. An independent practitioner helps both parents talk through the issues and try to reach an agreement about the children, such as where they live, how time is shared, and how decisions are made.

It is worth checking that a practitioner is accredited before you book. The Attorney-General's Department keeps the Family Dispute Resolution Register, where you can search for accredited practitioners and confirm a practitioner's registration. fdrr.ag.gov.au

Family Relationship Centres and Relationships Australia both offer FDR, and so do many private mediators.

Free and low-cost legal help

Every state and territory has a Legal Aid commission. They offer free legal information, and depending on your circumstances they may also be able to give advice or represent you in family law matters.

Community legal centres are another option. There are more than 160 across Australia, and they provide mostly free advice and legal services to their local communities. Community Legal Centres Australia has a search to find the one nearest you. clcs.org.au

For official information about parenting arrangements, parenting orders and the court process, see the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. fcfcoa.gov.au

Keeping a clear record of what you agree

Whatever route you take, it helps to have what you and the other parent agree written down somewhere you can both see it. If communication is difficult, a shared, time-stamped record of messages, the calendar and expenses can stop small misunderstandings turning into big arguments. KidsFirst keeps that record for both parents, and either parent can export a message thread. If an agreement is not being followed, our guide on what to do if your co-parent is not complying with agreements may help.

Common questions

Do we have to try mediation before going to court?

In most cases, separated parents are expected to make a genuine attempt at family dispute resolution before applying to court for parenting orders. There are exceptions, including where there is family violence or a risk of child abuse, and in urgent situations. A lawyer or Legal Aid can tell you whether an exception applies to you.

How do I check a mediator is accredited?

Search the Family Dispute Resolution Register at fdrr.ag.gov.au. You can also ask the practitioner for their registration details before you book.

Is there free legal help for separated parents?

Yes. Legal Aid commissions offer free legal information in every state and territory, and may offer advice or representation depending on your circumstances. Community legal centres provide mostly free advice. The Family Relationship Advice Line (1800 050 321) can also point you in the right direction.

What if I don't feel safe with the other parent?

Call 000 in an emergency. For confidential support at any time, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732. If you are subject to a protection order or a family court order, get legal advice before agreeing to any arrangement or communication with the other parent.

Where to start

• If safety is a concern, start with 1800RESPECT or 000.
• If you are not sure where to begin, call the Family Relationship Advice Line on 1800 050 321.
• If you need legal advice, contact Legal Aid in your state or your nearest community legal centre.