Cost benefit analysis reveals that for every dollar invested in family dispute resolution (FDR), more than $20 in benefits are returned. These benefits span financial and non-financial impacts, delivering meaningful outcomes for families, the family law system and the broader community. The report recommends increasing FDR funding by 35 per cent. 

Family dispute resolution is a professional service designed to assist separating couples to resolve disputes about parenting arrangements, as well as property and financial matters. In Australia, separated parents must usually attempt FDR before undertaking court proceedings related to arrangements for children and parenting matters. Overall, the analysis indicates that mandatory FDR delivers substantial financial and social benefits.

Findings

• For every dollar invested, FDR generates about $20.80 in benefits.  
• The inclusion of benefits to families substantially enhances the cost-benefit ratio. 
• If the non-financial benefits are excluded, the analysis still demonstrates significant returns, with a benefit of $15.3.
• The key financial benefits come from avoided costs to the family law system, estimated at $4,400 per family. 
• Traditional analyses, which often focus solely on government savings, typically report a benefit range of $1.5-2.25.
• While not quantified, the report recognises that FDR likely contributes to broader positive social outcomes.