All FDRP's are qualified but not all FDRP's are experienced.

According to the Australian Government Attorney-General's website, a family dispute resolution (FDR) practitioner is an independent person who helps people affected by separation or divorce to resolve their parenting disputes.

To be called an FDR practitioner, an applicant must meet the accreditation standards in the Family Law ( Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners) Regulations 2008.

Once accredited, a practitioner is required to meet specific obligations under the Regulations.

As with all occupations, qualifications don't always equate to experience.

The ranks of FDR practioners contain a wide range of mediators with diverse backgrounds and experience.

Some, particularly those with a background in the social sciences and therapy have many years of client contact and experience over the full array of interpersonal disputes and conflict resolution.

Others offer many years of mediation experience and  understanding of the nuances and subtleties of relationships.

I am reminded of the answer I was once  given from the highly skilled wood turner when I asked how long it had taken him to make the magnificent cedar cabinet complete with multiple pieces of inlaid glass. Without hesitating, the craftsman responded, " forty hours and forty years".

The benefit of experience gives practitioners an insight into people and relationships that a less experienced practitioner cannot be expected to have. 

Experience also gives practitioners the confidence and perspective to "tell it as it is", rather than tell parties what they want to hear.

Parties are well advised to consider the experience and background of mediators when choosing a FDR Practioner.

At Brisbane Mediations, all of our FDRP's are not only qualified but offer a wide background of talent and experience.

What could be more important than working out the future arrangement for your children after separation.