Parenting Plan Mediation Canberra
A calm, supported way to agree how you will raise your children after separation, with their wellbeing at the centre.
Putting your children first
Separation is one of the hardest things a family can go through, and children often feel it most. A parenting plan is a clear, practical agreement between separated or separating parents about how they will continue to raise their children together, even while living apart.
We help you reach that agreement through mediation: a calm, structured process where an impartial facilitator helps you work through the practical decisions and focus on what matters most, the wellbeing of your children. It is far less stressful, and far less costly, than working it all out through the courts.
What a parenting plan includes
A parenting plan can be as detailed as your family needs. Common things it sets out include:
- Where the children will live
- Time spent with each parent
- Financial arrangements and child support
- How major decisions will be made
- Contact with extended family
- How changes will be handled in future
- Communication between parents
- Holidays, birthdays and special occasions
Keeping the child at the centre
A good plan is built around the real needs of your children. Together we make sure it accounts for what matters to them.
Age and stage
Arrangements that suit each child’s age, development and routines, and that can adapt as they grow.
Everyday needs
School, activities, health, and the practical logistics of daily life across two homes.
Special needs
Any additional care, support or health needs a child has, built into the plan from the start.
Cultural needs
A child’s cultural identity and connections, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural needs, respected and supported.
The child’s voice
Where appropriate, the child’s own views and preferences, considered in an age-appropriate way.
Safety and stability
Above all, arrangements that keep children safe, secure and shielded from adult conflict.
Mediation resolves most matters without going to court. If your situation needs more than mediation can provide, we can refer you to one of our trusted legal associates, so you always have the right support at the right time. Get in touch to talk it through.
Meet Darleen
I am the founder and director of DIPAC, which I established in 2009. As a nationally accredited mediator with around 25 years of practice, I have helped many separating parents reach workable, child-focused agreements. My role is to keep the process calm and fair, and to keep your children’s wellbeing at the heart of every decision.
- Australian Counselling Association
- AIFLAM
- Mediation Institute of Australia
- Nationally Accredited Mediator
- Family Group Facilitator
- NDIS Provider
- Accredited Private Health Provider
Agree a plan that works
Taking the first step is often the hardest part. When you are ready, we will help you build a plan that puts your children first. In person in Canberra, or securely online across Australia.