Your Learning Outcomes
- Understand the legislative requirements and framework for family dispute resolution in Australia
- Provide accurate information to families about dispute resolution processes and their options
- Collaborate effectively with other professionals in the family law system
- Contribute to workplace improvements and professional development in your role
About This Course
Welcome to CHCFAM001 — a comprehensive qualification in Family Dispute Resolution. Whether you're completing this as part of your Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution, as one of six core units in a formal course, or as a standalone qualification, you're taking an important step in developing expertise in helping families resolve conflicts.
This course will develop your knowledge of the family law system, your skills in facilitating family dispute resolution, and your understanding of the responsibilities and ethical obligations you'll carry as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP).
Course overview video — 7 minutes
How This Course Is Structured
You'll progress through 7 modules over the course. Each module combines video content, readings, interactive activities, and assessments designed to build your knowledge and skills progressively.
Pages: 8 pages covering course structure, roles in the family law system, and introduction to FDR practices
Assessment: Module discussion forum and completion quiz
Pages: Content covering the Family Law Act 1975, state and territory legislation, and key legislative changes
Assessment: Module discussion and knowledge check activities
Pages: Comprehensive content on confidentiality provisions, mandatory reporting, and professional obligations
Assessment: Module forum discussion and scenario-based assessment task
Pages: Core content on active listening, empathy, neutrality, and facilitating productive family conversations
Assessment: Module discussion, scenario analysis, and skill-based activity
Pages: Content addressing family violence, power imbalances, trauma-informed practice, and cultural competency
Assessment: Module discussion forum and case analysis assignment
Pages: Specialised content on parenting plans, child support, property division, and spousal maintenance considerations
Assessment: Module discussion, knowledge checks, and practical application tasks
Pages: Final module on professional accountability, self-care, supervision, and continuing professional development
Assessment: Final reflective assignment and completion of course survey
Important Legislative Changes
The family law system has undergone significant changes in recent years. You should be aware of these updates as they directly affect your practice:
2021 — Federal Court System Restructure: The Family Court merged with the Federal Circuit Court to form the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA). This restructure affects jurisdiction, appeal pathways, and how FDRPs interact with the courts.
2023 — Family Law Amendment (Information Sharing) Act 2023: Enhanced data sharing between courts and agencies for child safety concerns. As an FDRP, understanding these provisions is essential to your obligations around child protection.
2024 — Further Amendments to the Family Law Act: Changes to the test for parenting orders and additional requirements for Independent Children's Lawyers (ICLs). These amendments refine how best interests of children assessments are conducted.
2025 — Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner Regulations: New regulations updating the accreditation and professional standards for FDRPs. You will need to ensure your practice complies with these latest requirements.
If you do not pass an assessment, you can resubmit it for re-marking. We encourage you to seek feedback from your facilitator on what to improve before resubmitting. Your success matters to us.
Additional Learning Resources
Throughout this course, you'll be directed to relevant legislation, case law, government websites, and professional resources. These materials supplement the course content and provide you with authoritative sources for your practice.
Key government websites you'll reference include:
- Attorney-General's Department — FDRP accreditation and family law policy
- Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia — Court information, practice notes, and resources
- Family Relationships — Family support services and FDR practice guidance
- National Legal Aid — Legal assistance information
How to Use This Course
As you work through each module, you'll find:
- Learning outcomes at the start of each page showing what you'll learn
- Presentation videos that introduce key concepts
- Interactive elements like knowledge checks to test your understanding
- Callout boxes highlighting key definitions, tips, important notes, and legislative updates
- Discussion prompts inviting you to reflect and share with other learners
Work at your own pace, and don't hesitate to revisit sections if you need to refresh your understanding. Learning to be an effective FDRP is a journey, and this course is designed to support you every step of the way.