Vocational Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution

The Vocational Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution is offered by Relationships Australia (SA), through its Registered Training Organisation, 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 provides:

1. A learning and assessment program called ‘Mixed Mode’
2. An assessment only program called ‘Recognition’.

Family Dispute Resolution

Family dispute resolution is a process conducted by an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) to assist members of families, including separated families, to resolve some or all of their disputes with each other. Examples of family dispute resolution processes are mediation and conciliation. Family dispute resolution services can help separating families resolve disputes as an alternative to going to court.

Who is this for?

This qualification is for people who are interested in undertaking work within the expanding field of family dispute resolution or those within the field seeking opportunities to engage in further learning or to have their current skills and knowledge formally recognised. 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
• Conflict around shared parenting responsibilities and care
• Conflict and disputes over property division and settlement
• Complex relationship dynamics
• Family / domestic violence.

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.

A family dispute resolution practitioner is an individual that meets the accreditation requirements set out in the Family Law (Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners) Regulations 2008. Family dispute resolution practitioners must apply for accreditation to the Australian Government Attorney-General’s Department. Achievement of this qualification does not guarantee accreditation as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner with the Attorney Generals Department.

We recommend that you read the information contained in the links below before making your application to participate in this program.

Web links for further information

For further information on Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner Accreditation
Frequently asked questions – Accreditation and the Family Dispute Resolution Register

Course entry requirements

Candidates seeking entry to this qualification must provide evidence of one of the following

• An undergraduate degree or higher qualification in Psychology, Social Work, Law, Conflict Management, Dispute Resolution, Family Law Mediation or equivalent

OR

• An accredited qualification in conflict management or dispute resolution at Diploma or Advanced Diploma level

OR

• Certificate IV in Mediation

OR

• Previous experience in a family dispute resolution environment in a job role involving self directed application of knowledge with substantial depth in some areas, exercise of independent judgement and decision making, and a range of technical and other skills.

Evidence of qualifications or relevant experience must be received on the application form . Each application is individually assessed against the qualification entry requirements. All applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application.

Course content

The qualification is delivered in three modules through facilitated online learning, combined with a facilitated telephone or video conference for module 1a and a compulsory 5 day face to face (F2F) intensive for module 1b. This flexible delivery provides access to a broad range of resources and information, as well as opportunities to maximise professional relationships. All students are expected to pay for their own travel and accommodation in addition to the course costs.

There are three modules of study. The modules are offered online over eight to twelve weeks each. 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 practice assessment supervised by qualified and experienced Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners.

Modules

Each module also focuses on developing reflective professional practice.

Competencies

The Diploma is comprised of 10 nationally recognised units of competency aligned to the above listed ‘Modules’.

Core competencies

Workplace Application of FDR
The six core units of competency include assessment of skills and knowledge that must be applied in an appropriate FDR workplace under direct supervision. The practical skills application is assessed during the 5 day F2F training intensive held in Adelaide.

Elective competencies

Availability

The course is available to students across Australia

Mixed Mode Class

The learning and assessment program is delivered online and includes one or more telephone or video conferences plus the F2F intensive. All topics can be completed within one year.

Next student intake: Applications for the next mixed mode intake are open from now until August 20, 2010. The program will commence September 6, 2010.

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, family mediation, counselling and/or family and domestic violence.

Next student intake: Applications for recognition intake 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 essays, short answer questions and/or reports.

How to apply

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

For more information

Further information on the course, please e-mail RTO@rasa.org.au or telephone (08) 8245 8100.