Separation affects families in many different ways and can leave parents feeling traumatised, overwhelmed, and uncertain about their next steps. In high-conflict or high-risk separations, traditional pathways such as mediation or seeking legal advice are not always effective. In some circumstances, these approaches may fail before they even begin, resulting in unnecessary emotional strain, wasted time, and significant financial expense. Too often, parents are then forced into the legal system—an outcome most families are seeking to avoid.

The PTA Co-Parenting Clinic Program provides an alternative pathway for parents who are experiencing challenges either before mediation commences, during the mediation process or when parents believe they can reach an outcome without the formal process.

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This program is particularly suited to matters that do not require court intervention or have already been to court and orders are no longer working, can no longer afford lawyers, are challenged, have complex cases, or are at risk and require additional services. PTA Clinic Programs support parents to work through difficulties in a structured, supported, and child-focused environment.

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Parents may engage in the program individually or both choose to participate. Regardless of how parents engage, they are seen separately throughout the PTA Co-Parenting Clinic Program to ensure safety, clarity, and appropriate individual support.

 

Where mediation has already commenced and challenges arise, a Family Dispute Resolution Mediator (FDRM) may pause the mediation process. This allows both parents the opportunity to engage in the PTA Co-Parenting Clinic Program, providing time to address concerns without the pressure of mediation failing. Once the program is completed, parents can then return to mediation better prepared and supported or return to their lawyer to finalize the agreement if mediation is no longer necessary.

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Participation in the PTA Co-Parenting Clinic Program enables parents to re-enter mediation with new perspectives and greater capacity to engage constructively or can immediately engage a lawyer to finalize the process. Many families are able to finalise mediation more smoothly, potentially saving thousands of dollars in court-related costs. Most importantly, parents retain their decision-making power and are supported to make informed choices about their co-parenting future, rather than having decisions imposed by the court.

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PTA also provides mediation services to families across Australia, working with highly trained Family Dispute Resolution Mediators. Our mediators are experienced in both parenting and financial matters, ensuring families receive professional, balanced, and child-focused support throughout the mediation process.