Vocational Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution

The Vocational Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution is offered by Relationships Australia (SA), through its RTO, the Australian Institute of Social Relations. This is a new essential qualification for Australia’s family dispute resolution workers. Drawing on over 15 years experience in the field the Institute is able to provide a learning and assessment program, as well as accredit recognition of prior knowledge for this qualification.

Who is this for?

This qualification is for people with a background in law, psychology, social work or dispute resolution, and who are interested in a career in the expanding field of family dispute resolution.

It will suit those with an existing interest in conflict management, problem solving methodologies or alternative dispute resolution, and those who already work with couples, families and children in areas including:

• Post separation or divorce
• Families in conflict
• Families experiencing complex difficulties.
  

Accreditation of Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners from 1 July 2009

This qualification was created in response to significant changes in the family law system that specifies new accreditation requirements for Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners, and in response to the creation of several new and extended services for families.

FDR Practitioners are required to be listed on the Attorney Generals’ Family Dispute Resolution Register. To achieve accreditation and be listed, people new to FDR work can:

• Complete the full Vocational Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution
• Provide evidence of an appropriate qualification or accreditation under the National Mediation Accreditation Scheme and achieve competency in the six compulsory units from the Vocational Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution by successfully completing either Recognition or course work (Module 1, 2, and 3 of the Diploma, with a workplace placement).

Course content

There are four modules of study, and a workplace placement. The modules are offered online over four to six week each, with Modules 1 and 3 also including a face-to-face intensive learning session. Each week of online course work will require 7 to 10 hours commitment. All modules can be completed within one year. The learning and assessment program is delivered using a variety of learning activities including role play, forum discussion, case study analysis, quizzes and supervised placement.

Modules

1. Family dispute resolution models of practice
2. Managing power in family dispute resolution and responding to vulnerable clients 
3. Developing options and agreement
4. Child centred practice
5. Workplace Application.

Each module also focuses on developing reflective professional practice.

Competencies

The Diploma is comprised of 10 competencies, that are assessed across the Modules:

Core competencies

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Operate in a family law environment Create an environment that supports the safety of vulnerable parties in dispute resolution Respond to family domestic violence in family work Facilitate dispute resolution in the family law context Implement family dispute resolution strategies Facilitate dispute resolution in an impartial manner and adhere to ethical standards

Elective competencies

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Manage domestic and family violence and abuse screening and assessment processes Manage own professional development in responding to domestic and family violence Develop an understanding of child inclusive practice Assist clients to develop parenting arrangements

Workplace Application of FDR (Placement)
The six core competencies must be assessed through the workplace application under direct supervision.

Availability

Mixed Mode Class

The topics are offered through facilitated online learning, with modules 1 and 3 also involving face-to-face training. This delivery provides flexibility, access to a broader range of tools and information, as well as the ability to maximise professional relationship opportunities with your peers and facilitators.

The learning and assessment program is delivered using a variety of learning activities including video lectures, role play, discussion with fellow students and guest speakers, case study analysis, quizzes and supervised placement.

All topics and the placement can be completed within one year. Due to the flexible nature of our delivery, we will be offering more courses in the near future and encourage you to register your interest with us early.

The course is available to students across Australia.

Training dates

Recognition

Recognition enables applicants to have their existing skills and knowledge relating to family dispute resolution acknowledged and status granted where appropriate. This is available for people with extensive and relevant experience in family law, mediation, counselling or family and domestic violence. Applications are open now.

Assessment

A variety of techniques will be used to gather evidence of your competence.

• Online quizzes and short answer responses
• Participation in structured activities such as live online forums
• Direct observation
• Third party feedback and self reflection
• Written reports.

How to apply

To apply for entry into this qualification please fax, post or email the relevant application form.
 

• Entry Requirements, Pathways & Application Form for FDR Practitioners registered with the Attorney General's Department prior to 30 June 2009
• Entry Requirements, Pathways & Application Form for people seeking accreditation as a FDR Practitioner.

For more information

Further information on the course, please contact Iain Henderson by phone (08) 8245 8100.