“22 Attendance at hearings

• “(1) The following persons may attend a hearing of an application under this Act:

  • “(a) officers of the Court:

  • “(b) the applicant, or in the case of a joint application, the applicants parties to the proceedings:

  • “(c) the lawyers representing the applicant or joint applicants parties to the proceedings:

  • “(d) a social worker who furnished a report under section 10:

  • “(e) accredited news media reporters:

  • “(f) persons whom the Judge permits to be present as support persons for an applicant a party on the request of that applicant party:

  • “(g) any other persons whom the Judge permits to be present.

  “(2) No other person may attend a hearing of an application under this Act.

  “(3) The Judge must agree to a request under subsection (1)(f) unless the Judge considers there is a good reason why the named support persons should not be permitted to be present.

  “(4) No support persons may help an applicant conduct his or her case.

  “(5) If, during a hearing, the Judge requests a person of any of the following kinds to leave the courtroom, the person must do so:

  • “(a) an accredited news media reporter:

  • “(b) a support person whom the Judge permitted to be present under subsection (1)(f).

  “(6) Nothing in this section limits any other power of the Court—

  • “(a) to hear proceedings in private; or

  • “(ab) to permit a McKenzie friend to be present; or

  • “(b) to exclude any person from the Court.

“22A Publication of reports of proceedings

• “(1) Subject to subsection (2), any person may publish a report of proceedings under this Act.

  “(2) No person may, without the leave of the Court hearing the proceedings, publish a report of proceedings under this Act that includes any name or particulars likely to lead to the identification of any of the following persons:

  • “(a) the child who is the subject of the proceedings:

  • “(b) the applicant or applicants in the proceedings:

  • “(c) a person who is related to, or associated with, a person referred to in paragraph (a) or (b) or who is, or may be, in any other way concerned in the matter to which the proceedings relate (for example, a support person for an applicant).

  “(3) However, a report of proceedings under this Act that includes any name or particulars likely to lead to the identification of the persons described in subsection (2)(a) or (b) or (c) may be published by the child who is the subject of the proceedings.

  “(4) The Court may grant leave under subsection (2) with or without conditions.

  “(5) Every person who contravenes subsection (2) commits an offence against this Act and is liable on summary conviction,—

  • “(a) in the case of an individual, either to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $2,000:

  • “(b) in the case of a body corporate, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.

  “(6) Nothing in this section limits the power of a court to punish any contempt of Court.

“22A Publication of reports of proceedings

• Sections 11B to 11D of the Family Courts Act 1980 apply to the publication of a report of any proceedings under this Act—

  • “(a) in a Family Court:

  • “(b) in any other court, in which case references in those sections to the Family Court or Court must be read as references to that other court.”

• “(2A) A direction to a Registrar under subsection (1) must set out—

  • “(a) the issues to be addressed by the lawyer; and

  • “(b) the tasks to be completed by the lawyer.”

“counsellor has the meaning given to it by section 2 of the Family Proceedings Act 1980

“mediator has the meaning given to it by section 2 of the Family Proceedings Act 1980”.

• “(a) may request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange—

  • “(i) counselling in respect of a dispute relating to the agreement, under section 65(1) 46G(1); or

  • “(ii) mediation in respect of a dispute relating to the agreement; and”.

• “(1A) A person who, with any other person, is proposing to enter into an agreement of the kind described in section 40(2) may request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange—

  • “(a) counselling in respect of a dispute relating to the proposed agreement; or

  • “(b) mediation in respect of a dispute relating to the proposed agreement, under section 65A(3) 46H(2).”

• “(ab) request mediation in respect of their dispute under section 66A(2); or”.

• “(2) Subsection (1)(a) and (ab) do not limit section 45 (which relates to an application for a parenting order being referred to a counsellor or mediator).”

“45 Family Proceedings Act 1980 dispute resolution provisions apply to certain proceedings

• The following sections of the Family Proceedings Act 1980 apply in respect of an application under section 48 for a parenting order:

  • “(a) section 10(4) and (5) (under which a Family Court Judge may refer the matter to a counsellor, in which case a Family Court hearing generally does not proceed unless either the applicant or the respondent, not less than 28 days after the date of the reference, requests that the hearing should proceed); and

  • “(b) section 12D(2) and (3) (under which a Family Court Judge may refer the matter to a mediator, in which case a Family Court hearing generally does not proceed unless either the applicant or the respondent, not less than 28 days after the date of the reference, requests that the hearing should proceed); and

  • “(c) section 19(1) (which, among other things, requires the Court to consider the possibility of a reconciliation between spouses, civil union partners, or de facto partners, or of conciliation between them on any matter in issue).”

“46C Certain children may seek review of parent's or guardian's decision or refusal to give consent

• “(1) A child of or over the age of 16 years who is affected by a decision or by a refusal of consent by a parent or guardian in an important matter may (unless the child is under the guardianship of the Court) apply to a Family Court Judge who may, if he or she thinks it reasonable in all the circumstances to do so, review the decision or refusal and make any order in respect of it that he or she thinks fit.

  “(2) A consent given by a Family Court Judge under this section has the same effect as if it had been given by the parent or guardian.

  “(3) This section does not apply where a parent or guardian refuses to give consent to a child's marriage, civil union, or entry into a de facto relationship. In those cases, sections 18 to 20 of the Marriage Act 1955, sections 19 and 20 of the Civil Union Act 2004, and section 46A of this Act, respectively, apply instead.

“Counselling and mediation to resolve disputes

“46D Duty of lawyers to promote reconciliation and conciliation

• “(1) In all matters in issue between spouses, civil union partners, or de facto partners that are or may become the subject of proceedings under this Act, every lawyer acting for either spouse, civil union partner, or de facto partner must—

  • “(a) ensure that the spouse, civil union partner, or de facto partner for whom the lawyer is acting is aware of the facilities that exist for promoting reconciliation and conciliation; and

  • “(b) take such further steps as in the opinion of the lawyer may assist in promoting reconciliation or, if reconciliation is not possible, conciliation.

  “(2) Every lawyer who is acting for a spouse, civil union partner, or de facto partner, and who applies to the Court to have set down for hearing any matter in issue between the spouses, civil union partners, or de facto partners under this Act, must certify on the application that he or she has carried out his or her responsibilities under subsection (1).

“46E Duty of Courts as to reconciliation and conciliation

• In all proceedings under this Act between spouses, civil union partners, or de facto partners for a parenting order, the Court must—

  • “(a) consider the possibility of a reconciliation between the spouses, civil union partners, or de facto partners, or of conciliation between them on any matter in issue; and

  • “(b) take such further steps as in its opinion may assist in promoting reconciliation or, if reconciliation is not possible, conciliation.

“46F Disputes between guardians

• “(1) If 2 or more guardians of a child are unable to agree on a matter concerning the exercise of their guardianship, any of them may—

  • “(a) request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange counselling in respect of their dispute; or

  • “(b) request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange mediation in respect of their dispute; or

  • “(c) apply to a Court for its direction.

  “(2) Where a request has been made to a Registrar under subsection (1)(a), the Registrar must, on the completion by the person making the request on the prescribed form, arrange for the matter to be referred to a counsellor.

  “(3) Where a request has been made to a Registrar under subsection (1)(b), the Registrar may, on the completion by the person making the request on the prescribed form, arrange for the matter to be referred to a mediator.

  “(4) An application under subsection (1)(c) must be made to a Family Court unless subsection (5) applies.

  “(5) An application under subsection (1)(c) must be made to a High Court, and the High Court has exclusive jurisdiction to settle the dispute, where—

  • “(a) under an order of the High Court, 2 or more persons are guardians of, or have the role of providing day-to-day care for a child, and that order has not been removed into a Family Court under section 127:

  • “(b) the child is under the guardianship of the High Court.

  “(6) On an application under subsection (1)(c), the Court may make any order relating to the matter it thinks proper.

“46G Request for counselling by party to agreement or person proposing to enter agreement

• “(1) A party to an agreement of the kind described in section 40(2) may request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange counselling in respect of a dispute arising from another party to the agreement contravening or appearing to contravene the agreement.

  “(2) A person, who with any other person, is proposing to enter into an agreement of the kind described in section 40(2) may request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange counselling in respect of a dispute arising in connection with the terms of the proposed agreement.

  “(3) Where a request has been made to a Registrar under subsection (1) or (2), the Registrar must, on the completion by the person making the request on the prescribed form, arrange for the matter to be referred to a counsellor.

“46H Request for mediation by party to an agreement or person proposing to enter agreement

• “(1) A party to an agreement of the kind described in section 40(2) may request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange mediation in respect of a dispute arising from another party to the agreement contravening or appearing to contravene the agreement.

  “(2) A person, who with any other person, is proposing to enter into an agreement of the kind described in section 40(2) may request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange mediation in respect of a dispute arising in connection with the terms of the proposed agreement.

  “(3) Where a request has been made to a Registrar under subsection (1) or (2), the Registrar may, on the completion by the person making the request on the prescribed form, arrange for the matter to be referred to a mediator.

“46I Counselling where proceedings commenced

• “(1) This section applies on the filing of—

  • “(a) an application under section 46F(1)(c) for a direction of the Court on a guardianship matter:

  • “(b) an application under section 48 for a parenting order.

  “(2) A Family Court Judge may, if he or she thinks it expedient to do so, direct the Registrar to arrange for the matter to be referred to a counsellor.

  “(3) On receipt of a direction under subsection (2), the Registrar must arrange for the matter to be referred accordingly.

  “(4) If, not less than 28 days after the date on which the Registrar has arranged for the matter to be referred to a counsellor under subsection (3), either party requests that the application proceed, the proceedings must be continued unless the Court otherwise directs.

  “(5) Nothing in subsection (4) prevents the continuation of the proceedings before the expiry of 28 days if the Court, upon application to it, so directs.

“46J Mediation where proceedings commenced

• “(1) This section applies on the filing of—

  • “(a) an application under section 46F(1)(c) for a direction of the Court on a guardianship matter:

  • “(b) an application under section 48 for a parenting order.

  “(2) A Family Court Judge may, if he or she thinks it expedient to do so, direct the Registrar to arrange for the matter to be referred to a mediator.

  “(3) On receipt of a direction under subsection (2), the Registrar must arrange for the matter to be referred accordingly.

  “(4) If, not less than 42 days after the date on which the Registrar has arranged for the matter to be referred to a mediator under subsection (3), either party requests that the application proceed, the proceedings must be continued unless the Court otherwise directs.

  “(5) Nothing in subsection (4) prevents the continuation of the proceedings before the expiry of 42 days if the Court, upon application to it, so directs.

“46K Mediation conference

• “(1) This section applies where—

  • “(a) an application is made under section 46F(1)(c) for a direction of the Court on a guardianship matter:

  • “(b) an application is made under section 48 for a parenting order.

  “(2) Any party to the proceedings, or a Family Court Judge, may request the Registrar of the Court to arrange for a mediation conference to be convened.

  “(3) On receiving a request under subsection (2), the Registrar must—

  • “(a) appoint a time and place for the holding of a mediation conference in accordance with section 46L; and

  • “(b) inform each of the parties to the application of the time and place of the mediation conference and request them to attend.

  “(4) The time appointed under subsection (3)(a) must be as soon as is reasonably practicable.

“46L Procedure at mediation conference

• “(1) Each mediation conference is chaired by a Family Court Judge.

  “(2) The objectives of the conference are—

  • “(a) to identify the matters in issue between the parties; and

  • “(b) to try to obtain agreement between the parties on the resolution of those matters.

  “(3) The Chairperson may from time to time adjourn the conference to a time and place to be appointed by the Chairperson.

  “(4) The Chairperson must record in writing the matters in issue at the conference, showing separately—

  • “(a) those matters on which agreement is reached between the parties; and

  • “(b) those matters on which no agreement is reached between the parties.

  “(5) The Chairperson must then file his or her written record in the Family Court in which the proceedings are filed.

“46M Attendance at mediation conference

• “(1) In addition to the parties, the following persons may attend a mediation conference:

  • “(a) a lawyer representing a party, if the party so requests:

  • “(b) a lawyer appointed to act for a child, if an appointment under section 7 has been made:

  • “(c) a person who the Chairperson agrees may attend as a support person for a party, if the party so requests.

  “(2) A lawyer attending a mediation conference at the request of a party may assist and advise that party.

  “(3) The Chairperson must agree to a request under subsection (1)(c) unless the Chairperson considers there is a good reason why the named support person should not be permitted to attend.

  “(4) Except to the extent provided in subsection (1), and unless the Chairperson otherwise directs, a mediation conference is held in private.

  “(5) If, during a mediation conference, the Chairperson requests a support person to leave the mediation conference, the support person must do so.

“46N Power of Chairperson to make consent orders at mediation conference

• “(1) The Chairperson presiding at a mediation conference may, by consent of the parties, make any orders that could have been made by a Family Court and that relate to an application by either party for a parenting order.

  “(2) However, where a party has no lawyer, or a party's lawyer is not present at the conference, a consent order must not be made unless that party states expressly that the party does not wish the conference to be adjourned to provide an opportunity for legal advice to be taken.

  “(3) An order made under this section has for all purposes the same effect as if it were made by the consent of the parties in proceedings before a Family Court.

“46O Proceedings after mediation conference

• The Family Court Judge who presides over a mediation conference between the parties to an application is entitled to hear any subsequent proceedings between those parties under that application unless in all the circumstances he or she decides, on his or her own motion or on the application of any party,—

  • “(a) that it would be inappropriate for him or her to do so; or

  • “(b) that there is some other sufficient reason for the application to be heard by another Judge.

“46P Counselling for child on making of parenting order or order relating to guardianship matter

• “(1) The Court may direct a child to attend counselling if the circumstances in subsection (2) exist.

  “(2) The circumstances are that—

  • “(a) the Court is making an order under section 46F(6) or 48(1); and

  • “(b) the Court considers that the child is in exceptional need of assistance in accepting the terms of the order or in adjusting to any changes resulting from the terms of the order.

  “(3) Where a direction is made under this section, the Registrar must arrange for the matter to be referred to a counsellor.

“46Q Request for counselling by party to parenting order

• “(1) A party to a parenting order may request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange counselling in respect of a dispute arising from another party to the order contravening or appearing to contravene the order.

  “(2) Where a request has been made to a Registrar under subsection (1), the Registrar must, on the completion by the person making the request on the prescribed form, arrange for the matter to be referred to a counsellor.

“46R Request for mediation by party to parenting order

• “(1) A party to a parenting order may request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange mediation in respect of a dispute arising from another party to the order contravening or appearing to contravene the order.

  “(2) Where a request has been made to a Registrar under subsection (1), the Registrar may, on the completion by the person making the request on the prescribed form, arrange for the matter to be referred to a mediator.

“46S Registrar may decline requests for counselling or mediation and recommend instead applications under section 68

• “(1) The Registrar may decline a request under section 46Q(1) or 46R(1) if he or she considers that arranging for the matter to be referred to a counsellor or mediator, as the case may be, is unlikely to help the parties to resolve the dispute.

  “(2) Without limiting the discretion under subsection (1), in exercising that discretion the Registrar must have regard to whether a party to the order has used violence (as defined in section 3(2) of the Domestic Violence Act 1995) against—

  • “(a) another party to the order; or

  • “(b) a child in the care of another party to the order; or

  • “(c) both.

  “(3) In declining a request under subsection (1), the Registrar may recommend that any or all of the parties to the order make an application under section 68.

  “(4) This section overrides sections 46Q and 46R.

“46T Reference to counsellor

• “(1) This section applies to a referral to counselling under—

  • “(a) section 46F(2):

  • “(b) section 46G(3):

  • “(c) section 46I(3):

  • “(d) section 46Q(2).

  “(2) A counsellor to whom a matter is referred must—

  • “(a) arrange to meet either or both of the parties at such times and places (including the home of either party) as the counsellor thinks fit for the purposes of counselling; or

  • “(b) request either or both of the parties to attend before the counsellor at a specified time and place for the purposes of counselling.

  “(3) The counsellor may meet with one of the parties, or both of the parties separately, if the counsellor considers a meeting would enable him or her to do any or all of the following:

  • “(a) clarify the main issues between the parties:

  • “(b) gather any further information that may be relevant to the conduct of the counselling:

  • “(c) determine with the parties whether, if the child who is the subject of the matter in issue wishes to do so, the child should attend 1 or more sessions of counselling.

“46U Duty of counsellors

• “(1) A counsellor to whom a matter is referred under section 46F(2), 46G(3), 46I(3), or 46Q(2) must attempt to promote conciliation between the parties.

  “(2) After carrying out his or her obligations under subsection (1), the counsellor must provide a report to the Registrar stating whether the parties have resolved the dispute.

  “(3) A report provided under subsection (2) may also state any of the following:

  • “(a) details of the understanding reached between the parties:

  • “(b) details of the matters remaining in issue between the parties:

  • “(c) a recommendation as to the next step or steps to be taken by the parties.

  “(4) The Registrar must give a copy of the counsellor's report to each party or to each party's lawyer.

  “(5) A recommendation made by a counsellor under subsection (3)(c) is not binding on the parties or on the Courts.

“46V Number of sessions of counselling

• The number of sessions of counselling to be carried out in respect of a referral under section 46F(2), 46G(3), 46I(3), 46P(2), 46Q(2), or 46ZA(4) must be determined in accordance with such regulations as may be made under this Act, or if no regulations apply, by the Registrar of the Court.

“46W Counselling fees and expenses

• Fees in respect of counselling services carried out under section 46F(2), 46G(3), 46I(3), 46P(2), 46Q(2), or 46ZA(4), and reasonable expenses incurred,—

  • “(a) may be determined in accordance with regulations made under this Act; and

  • “(b) are payable out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.

“46X Reference to mediator

• “(1) This section applies to a referral to mediation under—

  • “(a) section 46F(3):

  • “(b) section 46H(3):

  • “(c) section 46J(3):

  • “(d) section 46R(2).

  “(2) A mediator to whom a matter is referred must—

  • “(a) arrange to meet both of the parties, at such times and places (including the home of either party) as the mediator thinks fit for the purpose of mediation; or

  • “(b) request both of the parties to attend before the mediator at a specified time and place for the purposes of mediation.

  “(3) Prior to the mediation, the mediator may meet with one of the parties, or both of the parties separately, if the mediator considers a meeting would enable him or her to do any or all of the following:

  • “(a) assess whether mediation is appropriate:

  • “(b) clarify the main issues between the parties:

  • “(c) determine with the parties—

    • “(i) who should attend the mediation:

    • “(ii) how the mediation should proceed:

  • “(d) gather any further information that may be relevant to the conduct of the mediation.

“46Y Duties of mediators

• “(1) A mediator to whom a matter is referred under section 46F(3), 46H(3), 46J(3), or 46R(2) must make every endeavour to—

  • “(a) identify the matters in issue between the parties; and

  • “(b) facilitate negotiations between the parties in respect of those matters; and

  • “(c) assist the parties to reach agreement on the resolution of those matters.

  “(2) After carrying out his or her obligations under subsection (1), the mediator must provide a report to the Registrar stating whether the parties have resolved the dispute.

  “(3) A report provided under subsection (2) may also state any of the following:

  • “(a) details of the resolution reached between the parties:

  • “(b) details of the matters on which resolution has not been reached between the parties:

  • “(c) a recommendation as to the next step or steps to be taken by the parties.

  “(4) The Registrar must give a copy of the mediator's report to each party or to each party's barrister or solicitor.

  “(5) A recommendation made by a mediator under subsection (3)(c) is not binding on the parties or on the Court.

“46Z Mediation must be held in private

• The only persons who may attend mediation before a mediator are as follows:

  • “(a) the parties to the mediation; and

  • “(b) a lawyer representing a party to the mediation, if the mediator considers that in all the circumstances attendance by a lawyer is appropriate; and

  • “(c) a lawyer appointed to act for a child, if an appointment under section 7 has been made; and

  • “(d) a child who is the subject of the matter in issue between the parties, if the mediator agrees; and

  • “(e) a person who the mediator agrees may attend as a support person for a party, if the party so requests.

“46ZA Child who is attending mediation may request counselling

• “(1) This section applies where, under section 46Z(d), the mediator agrees that a child who is the subject of the matter in issue may attend mediation.

  “(2) The mediator must discuss with the child whether, prior to the child attending mediation, the child wishes to attend counselling for the purpose of clarifying his or her views on the matter in issue.

  “(3) If the child wishes to attend counselling, the mediator must give notice of this to the Registrar of the Family Court from whom the mediation referral was received.

  “(4) On receiving notice under subsection (3), the Registrar must arrange for the matter to be referred to a counsellor.

“46ZB Mediation may be adjourned

• The mediator may from time to time adjourn the mediation.

“46ZC Duration of mediation

• The duration of mediation to be carried out under section 46F(3), 46H(3), 46J(3), or 46R(2) must be determined in accordance with such regulations as may be made under this Act or, if no regulations apply, by the Registrar of the Court.

“46ZD Mediation fees and expenses

• Fees in respect of mediation carried out under section 46F(3), 46H(3), 46J(3), or 46R(2), and reasonable expenses incurred,—

  • “(a) may be determined in accordance with regulations made under this Act; and

  • “(b) are payable out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.

“46ZE Power to require attendance for counselling or mediation

• “(1) This section applies where a person fails to comply with—

  • “(a) a request under section 46T(2)(b) to attend before a counsellor; or

  • “(b) a request under section 46X(2)(b) to attend before a mediator; or

  • “(c) a request under section 46K(3)(b) to attend a mediation conference; or

  • “(d) a request under section 68(4)(b) to attend the hearing of an application under section 68.

  “(2) On an application for the purpose or on its own initiative, the Court may issue a summons requiring the person to attend before the counsellor or the mediator, or to attend a mediation conference, at a time and place to be specified in the summons.

  “(3) Section 20(1) to (3) and (5) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957 applies to a summons under this section as if it were a witness summons issued under that section.

“46ZF Privilege

• “(1) No evidence is admissible in any court, or before any person acting judicially, of any information, statement, or admission disclosed or made—

  • “(a) to a counsellor or mediator exercising his or her functions under this Part; or

  • “(b) in the course of a mediation conference.

  “(2) Nothing in subsection (1) applies to—

  • “(a) a report provided by a counsellor under section 46U(2); or

  • “(b) a report provided by a mediator under section 46Y(2); or

  • “(c) a record of the matters in issue at the conference made by a Chairperson under section 46L(4); or

  • “(d) a consent order made under section 46N(1), or to any proceedings for the review of such an order.

  “(3) Except to the extent that it is necessary for a counsellor or mediator to do so in the proper discharge of his or her functions, every counsellor and every mediator commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $500 who discloses to any other person any information, statement, or admission received by or made to him or her in the exercise of his or her functions under this Part.”

• “(3) A person who, with any other person, is proposing to enter into an agreement of the kind described in section 40(2) may ask a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange counselling in respect of a dispute arising in connection with the terms of the proposed agreement.”

• “(f) section 18 (which relates to privilege).”

“66A Request for mediation

• “(1) A party to a parenting order (or to an agreement of the kind described in section 40(2)) may ask a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange mediation in respect of a dispute arising from another party to the order (or to the agreement) contravening or appearing to contravene the order (or the agreement).

  “(2) If 2 or more guardians of a child are unable to agree on a matter concerning the exercise of their guardianship, any of them may ask a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange mediation in respect of their dispute.

  “(3) A person who, with any other person, is proposing to enter into an agreement of the kind described in section 40(2) may ask a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange mediation in respect of a dispute arising in connection with the terms of the proposed agreement.

“66B Procedure for request under section 66A(1), (2), or (3)

• The following sections of the Family Proceedings Act 1980 apply, with the following and all other necessary modifications, to a request under section 66A(1), (2), or (3) as if the request were one under section 12C(1) of that Act by a party to a marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship for mediation in respect of the marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship:

  • “(a) section 12C(2) (which provides that the Registrar may arrange for the matter to be referred to a mediator):

  • “(b) section 12E (which relates to the procedure the mediator must follow on being referred the matter):

  • “(c) section 12F (which relates to the mediator’s duties), except that the reference in subsection (2)(a) to whether the parties wish to resume or continue the marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship must be read as a reference to whether the parties to the parenting order (or the agreement), or the 2 or more guardians, have resolved the dispute:

  • “(d) section 12G (which provides that mediation must be held in private):

  • “(e) section 12H (which provides that mediation may be adjourned):

  • “(f) section 12I (which relates to the duration of mediation):

  • “(g) section 12J (which relates to mediation fees and expenses):

  • “(h) section 18 (which relates to privilege).”

“67A Registrar may decline requests for mediation and recommend instead applications under section 68

• If in the exercise of his or her discretion in section 12C(2) of the Family Proceedings Act 1980 (as modified and applied by section 66B of this Act) the Registrar declines a request under section 66A(1), the Registrar may recommend that any or all of the parties to the parenting order make an application under section 68.”

• “(ab) a request under section 12E(1)(b) of the Family Proceedings Act 1980 (as modified and applied by section of this Act) that the person attend before a mediator; or”.

• “(1A) A direction to a Registrar under subsection (1) must set out—

  • “(a) the issues to be addressed by the lawyer; and

  • “(b) the tasks to be completed by the lawyer.”

• “(2) If satisfied that it is necessary for the proper disposition of an application, the Court may—

  • “(a) request a person whom the Court considers qualified for the purpose to prepare a written cultural, medical, psychiatric, or psychological report on the child who is the subject of the application; or

  • “(b) direct the Registrar of the Court to request a person whom the Registrar considers qualified for the purpose to prepare a written cultural, medical, psychiatric, or psychological report on the child who is the subject of the application.

• “(2A) A direction to a Registrar under subsection (2)(b) must set out—

  • “(a) the issues to be addressed in the report; and

  • “(b) the tasks to be completed by the person requested to prepare the report.”

• “(ab) to permit a McKenzie friend to be present; or”

• “(9) Nothing in this section limits the power of a court to punish any contempt of Court.”

“139 Publication of reports of proceedings

• Sections 11B to 11D of the Family Courts Act 1980 apply to the publication of a report of any proceedings under this Act (other than criminal proceedings)—

  • “(a) in a Family Court:

  • “(b) in any other court, in which case references in those sections to the Family Court or Court must be read as references to that other court.”

• “(ba) providing for the determination of the number of sessions of counselling that may be carried out under section 46F(2), 46G(3), 46I(3), 46P(2), 46Q(2), or 46ZA(4):

• “(bb) providing for the determination of the amount of fees and expenses, including minimum and maximum amounts, payable in respect of counselling services carried out under section 46F(2), 46G(3), 46I(3), 46P(2), 46Q(2), or 46ZA(4), which fees and expenses may differ according to—

  • “(i) the number of sessions of counselling determined to be carried out under section 46V; and

  • “(ii) whether counselling services are to be provided in a specified number of proceedings during a specified period:

• “(bc) making provision for the determination of the duration of mediation that may be carried out under section 46F(3), 46H(3), 46J(3), or 46R(2):

• “(bd) providing for the determination of the amount of fees and expenses, including minimum and maximum amounts, payable in respect of mediation services carried out under section 46F(3), 46H(3), 46J(3), or 46R(2), which fees and expenses may differ according to—

  • “(i) the duration of the mediation (not exceeding the maximum duration of mediation that may be carried out as determined under section 46ZC; and

  • “(ii) the time spent by the mediator in meeting with the parties prior to mediation; and

  • “(iii) the complexity of the matter in issue between the parties.”

“89X Restriction on publication of reports of proceedings

• “(1) No person may, without the leave of the Commissioner or a Family Court, publish a report of any proceedings under this subpart.

  “(2) The Commissioner or a Family Court may grant leave under subsection (1) with or without conditions.

  “(3) Every person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence against this Act and is liable on summary conviction,—

  • “(a) in the case of an individual, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $2,000:

  • “(b) in the case of a body corporate, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.

  “(4) Nothing in this section applies to the publication of any report in any publication that—

  • “(a) is of a bona fide professional or technical nature; and

  • “(b) is intended for circulation among members of the legal profession, employees of the Crown, relationship counsellors, mediators, or social workers.

  “(5) Nothing in section 81 of the Tax Administration Act 1994 prevents the publication of a report of any proceedings under this subpart—

  • “(a) with the leave of the Commissioner or a Family Court; or

  • “(b) in accordance with subsection (4).”

“96P Restriction on publication of reports of proceedings

• “(1) No person may, without the leave of the Commissioner or a Family Court, publish a report of any proceedings under this Part.

  “(2) The Commissioner or a Family Court may grant leave under subsection (1) with or without conditions.

  “(3) Every person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence against this Act and is liable on summary conviction,—

  • “(a) in the case of an individual, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $2,000:

  • “(b) in the case of a body corporate, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.

  “(4) Nothing in this section applies to the publication of any report in any publication that—

  • “(a) is of a bona fide professional or technical nature; and

  • “(b) is intended for circulation among members of the legal profession, employees of the Crown, relationship counsellors, mediators, or social workers.

  “(5) Nothing in section 81 of the Tax Administration Act 1994 prevents the publication of a report of any proceedings under this Part—

  • “(a) with the leave of the Commissioner or a Family Court; or

  • “(b) in accordance with subsection (4).”

“96ZF Restriction on publication of reports of proceedings

• “(1) No person may, without the leave of the Commissioner or a Family Court, publish a report of any proceedings under this Part.

  “(2) The Commissioner or a Family Court may grant leave under subsection (1) with or without conditions.

  “(3) Every person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence against this Act and is liable on summary conviction,—

  • “(a) in the case of an individual, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $2,000:

  • “(b) in the case of a body corporate, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.

  “(4) Nothing in this section applies to the publication of any report in any publication that—

  • “(a) is of a bona fide professional or technical nature; and

  • “(b) is intended for circulation among members of the legal profession, employees of the Crown, relationship counsellors, mediators, or social workers.

  “(5) Nothing in section 81 of the Tax Administration Act 1994 prevents the publication of a report of any proceedings under this Part—

  • “(a) with the leave of the Commissioner or a Family Court; or

  • “(b) in accordance with subsection (4).”

• “(2) Section 11A of the Family Courts Act 1980 applies to the hearing of any application or appeal under this Act—

  • “(a) in a Family Court:

  • “(b) in any other court, in which case—

    • “(i) references in that section to the Family Court or Court must be read as references to that other court; and

    • “(ii) references in that section to the Family Court Judge or the Judge must be read as references to the Judge presiding at the hearing.”

• “(1) Subject to subsection (1A), any person may publish a report of any proceedings in respect of any application or of any appeal made under this Part.

• “(1A) No person may, without the leave of the Court hearing the proceedings, publish a report of proceedings in respect of any application or of any appeal made under this Part that includes any name or particulars likely to lead to the identification of any of the following:

  • “(a) a child to whom the proceeding relates:

  • “(b) the parties to the proceedings:

  • “(c) a person who is related to, or associated with, a person referred to in paragraph (a) or (b) or who is, or may be, in any other way concerned in the matter to which the proceedings relate (for example, a support person for the party).

• “(1B) The Court may grant leave under subsection (1A) with or without conditions.”

• “(3) Nothing in this section limits the power of a court to punish any contempt of Court.”

“124 Publication of reports of proceedings

• Sections 11B to 11D of the Family Courts Act 1980 apply to the publication of a report of any proceedings under this Part—

  • “(a) in a Family Court:

  • “(b) in any other court, in which case references in those sections to the Family Court or Court must be read as references to that other court.”

• “(1) Where a child or young person who is the subject of any proceedings under Part 2 or Part 3A is not represented by a barrister or solicitor, the Court or the Registrar of the Court must appoint a barrister or solicitor to represent the child or young person—

  • “(a) in those proceedings:

  • “(b) for any other specified purpose (including in relation to other proceedings under this Act or any other Act) considered desirable.

• “(1A) A Registrar may only exercise the power conferred by subsection (1)(b) on receipt of a direction from the Court setting out—

  • “(a) the issues to be addressed by the barrister or solicitor; and

  • “(b) the tasks to be completed by the barrister or solicitor.”

• “(3) Although the proceedings in respect of which any barrister or solicitor was appointed under subsection (1)(a) have been disposed of, or that the appointment is no longer required for any other purpose specified under subsection (1)(b), the Court may, if it is satisfied that it is necessary or desirable in the interests of the child or young person to do so,—

  • “(a) extend the barrister’s or solicitor’s appointment for any specified purpose; or

  • “(b) subject to subsection (2), appoint any other barrister or solicitor to represent the child or young person for any specified purpose; or

  • “(c) direct the Registrar of the Court to do either of these things.

• “(4) A direction to a Registrar under subsection (3)(c) must set out—

  • “(a) the issues to be addressed by the barrister or solicitor; and

  • “(b) the tasks to be completed by the barrister or solicitor.”

• “(2) A direction to a Registrar under subsection (1) must set out—

  • “(a) the issues to be addressed by the barrister or solicitor; and

  • “(b) the tasks to be completed by the barrister or solicitor.”

• “(na) accredited news media reporters:

• “(nb) persons whom the Judge permits to be present as support persons for—

  • “(i) the child or young person on a request by that child or young person:

  • “(ii) a party on a request by that party:”.

• “(2) The Judge must agree to a request under subsection (1)(nb) unless the Judge considers there is a good reason why the named support persons should not be permitted to be present.

• “(3) If, during the hearing, the Judge requests a person of any of the following kinds to leave the courtroom, the person must do so:

  • “(a) a witness:

  • “(b) an accredited news media reporter:

  • “(c) a support person whom the Judge permitted to be present under subsection (1)(nb).

• “(4) Nothing in this section limits any other power of the Court—

  • “(a) to hear proceedings in private; or

  • “(ab) to permit a McKenzie friend to be present; or

  • “(b) to exclude any person from the Court.”

• “(ka) persons whom the Judge permits to be present as support persons for—

  • “(i) the child or young person on a request by that child or young person:

  • “(ii) a party on a request by that party:

• “(ka) persons whom the Judge permits to be present as support persons for any person described in paragraphs (b) to (f) on a request by that person:”.

• “(1A) The Judge must agree to a request under subsection (1)(ka) unless the Judge considers there is a good reason why the named support persons should not be permitted to be present.”

• “(3) Nothing in this section limits any other power of the Court—

  • “(a) to hear the application in private; or

  • “(b) to permit a McKenzie friend to be present; or

  • “(c) to exclude any person from the Court.”

“437A Restriction on publication of reports of proceedings under Part 2, Part 3A, or section 371

• “(1) Subject to subsection (2), any person may publish a report of proceedings under Part 2 or Part 3A or section 371.

  “(2) No person may, without the leave of the Court hearing the proceedings, publish a report of proceedings under Part 2 or Part 3A or section 371 that includes any name or particulars likely to lead to the identification of any of the following persons:

  • “(a) the child or young person who is the subject of the proceedings:

  • “(b) the parties to the proceedings:

  • “(c) a person who is related to, or associated with, a person referred to in paragraph (a) or (b) or who is, or may be, in any other way concerned in the matter to which the proceedings relate (for example, a support person for the party).

  “(3) The Court may grant leave under subsection (2) with or without conditions.

  “(4) However, a report of proceedings under Part 2 or Part 3A, or section 371 that includes any name or particulars likely to lead to the identification of the persons described in subsection (2)(a) or (b) or (c) may be published by the child or young person who is the subject of the proceedings, or where there is more than one child or young person who is the subject of the proceedings, by those children or young persons who are the subject of the proceedings jointly.

  “(5) Every person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence against this Act and is liable on summary conviction,—

  • “(a) in the case of an individual, either to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $2,000:

  • “(b) in the case of a body corporate, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.

  “(6) Nothing in this section limits the power of a court to punish any contempt of Court.

“437A Publication of reports of proceedings under Part 2, Part 3A, or section 371

• Sections 11B to 11D of the Family Courts Act 1980 apply to the publication of a report of any proceedings under Part 2, Part 3A, or section 371—

  • “(a) in a Family Court:

  • “(b) in any other court, in which case references in those sections to the Family Court or Court must be read as references to that other court.”

“41A Powers of Registrar on receipt of notice under section 39 or 41

• “(1) On receiving a notice under section 39 or 41, the Registrar must, without delay, either—

  • “(a) exercise the powers under section 82, as if he or she were the Court referred to in that section, to call the respondent or, as the case may be, the associated respondent before the Court; or

  • “(b) bring the matter to the attention of a Judge so that the Judge may consider whether to exercise the power conferred by section 42 in relation to the respondent or, as the case may be, the associated respondent.

  “(2) Where the Registrar exercises the powers under section 82 in the manner allowed by subsection (1)(a) then, subject to any regulations made under this Act, section 82 applies so far as applicable and with the necessary modifications as if the respondent, or or, as the case may be, the associated respondent, were a witness in the proceedings.”

“42A Respondent or associated respondent called before Court

• “(1) Where a respondent or an associated respondent appears before the Court under section 41A(1)(a) or section 42, the Court may, after hearing the respondent or the associated respondent, confirm, vary, or discharge the direction.

  “(2) The Court may not vary or discharge a direction confirmed or varied under section 37 unless a variation of that direction has been requested under section 41.

  “(3) Where the Court confirms or varies a direction under subsection (1) and the respondent or, as the case may be, the associated respondent is before the Court, the Judge must warn him or her that non-compliance with the direction is an offence punishable by imprisonment.

  “(4) Failure to give the warning required by subsection (3) does not affect the validity of the direction confirmed or varied.”

• “(fa) accredited news media reporters:”.

• “(5) Nothing in this section limits any other power of the Court—

  • “(a) to hear proceedings in private; or

  • “(b) to permit a McKenzie friend to be present; or

  • “(c) to exclude any person from the Court.”

• “(1) Subject to subsection (1A), any person may publish a report of proceedings under this Act.

• “(1A) No person may, without the leave of the Court hearing the proceedings, publish a report of proceedings under this Act that includes any name or particulars likely to lead to the identification of any of the following persons:

  • “(a) the parties to the proceedings:

  • “(b) a person who is related to, or associated with, a party to the proceedings, or who is, or may be, in any other way concerned in the matter to which the proceedings relate (for example, a support person for the party).

• “(1B) The Court may grant leave under subsection (1A) with or without conditions.

• “(2) Every person who contravenes subsection (1A) commits an offence against this Act and is liable on summary conviction,—

  • “(a) in the case of an individual, either to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $2,000:

  • “(b) in the case of a body corporate, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.

• “(3) Nothing in this section limits the power of a court to punish any contempt of Court.”

“125 Restriction of publication of reports of proceedings

• Sections 11B to 11D of the Family Courts Act 1980 apply to the publication of a report of any proceedings under this Act (other than criminal proceedings)—

  • “(a) in a Family Court:

  • “(b) in any other court, in which case references in those sections to the Family Court or Court must be read as references to that other court.”

• “(2) A Judge sitting in a Family Court may wear a gown, but must not wear a wig.

• “(3) A lawyer appearing in a Family Court must not wear a gown or a wig.”

“11A Attendance at hearings

• “(1) Unless the Act under which proceedings are brought provides otherwise, the only persons who may attend a hearing of proceedings in a Family Court are as follows:

  • “(a) officers of the Court:

  • “(b) parties to the proceedings:

  • “(c) lawyers representing parties to the proceedings:

  • “(d) witnesses:

  • “(e) accredited news media reporters:

  • “(f) persons whom the Family Court Judge permits to be present as support persons for a party on a request by that party:

  • “(g) any other persons whom the Family Court Judge permits to be present.

  “(2) The Family Court Judge must agree to a request under subsection (1)(f) unless the Judge considers there is a good reason why the named support persons should not be permitted to be present.

  “(3) No support persons may help a party conduct his or her case.

  “(4) If, during a hearing, the Family Court Judge requests a person of any of the following kinds to leave the courtroom, the person must do so:

  • “(a) a witness:

  • “(b) an accredited news media reporter:

  • “(c) a support person whom the Judge permitted to be present under subsection (1)(f).

  “(5) Nothing in this section limits any other power of the Court—

  • “(a) to hear proceedings in private; or

  • “(ab) to permit a McKenzie friend to be present; or

  • “(b) to exclude any person from the Court.

“11B Publication of reports of proceedings

• “(1) Subject to subsection (2), any person may publish a report of proceedings in a Family Court.

  “(2) No person may, without the leave of the Court hearing the proceedings, publish a report of proceedings in a Family Court that includes identifying information where—

  • “(a) a child—

    • “(i) is the subject of the proceedings; or

    • “(ii) is a party to the proceedings; or

    • “(iii) is an applicant in the proceedings; or

    • “(iv) is referred to in the proceedings; or

  • “(b) a vulnerable person—

    • “(i) is the subject of the proceedings; or

    • “(ii) is a party to the proceedings; or

    • “(iii) is an applicant in the proceedings.

  “(3) However, a report of proceedings in a Family Court containing identifying information may be published by a person described in subsection (2)(a), or (b), or where there is more than one such person in the proceedings, by those persons jointly.

  “(1) Any person may publish a report of proceedings in a Family Court.

  “(2) Subsection (1) is subject to subsection (3).

  “(3) A person may not, without the leave of the Court, publish a report of proceedings in a Family Court that includes identifying information where—

  • “(a) a person under the age of 18 years—

    • “(i) is the subject of the proceedings; or

    • “(ii) is a party to the proceedings; or

    • “(iii) is an applicant in the proceedings; or

    • “(iv) is referred to in the proceedings; or

  • “(b) a vulnerable person—

    • “(i) is the subject of the proceedings; or

    • “(ii) is a party to the proceedings; or

    • “(iii) is an applicant in the proceedings.

  “(4AA) However, subsection (3) does not apply to—

  • “(a) a report of proceedings in a publication that—

    • “(i) is genuinely of a professional or technical nature (including a publication that is intended for circulation among members of the legal or medical professions, officers of the Public service, psychologists, counsellors, mediators, or social workers); and

    • “(ii) does not include the name of—

      • “(A) any person under the age of 18 years who is the subject of the proceedings, or who is referred to in the proceedings:

      • “(B) any vulnerable person who is the subject of the proceedings:

      • “(C) any parties or applicants in the proceedings where subparagraph (A) or (B) applies:

      • “(D) any school that a person who is the subject of proceedings under the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989 is or was attending, or any other particulars likely to lead to the identification of that school:

  • “(b) a publication of statistical information relating to the proceedings.

  “(4) The Court may grant leave under subsection (2) (3) with or without conditions.

  “(5) Every person who contravenes subsection (2) this section commits an offence against this Act and is liable on summary conviction,—

  • “(a) in the case of an individual, either to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $2,000:

  • “(b) in the case of a body corporate, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.

  “(6) Subsection (5) does not limit the power of a court to punish any contempt of Court.

  “(7) This section is subject to any other enactment relating to the publication or regulation of the publication of reports or particulars of a Family Court proceeding.

“11C Meaning of identifying information

• “(1) For the purposes of section 11B, identifying information means information relating to proceedings that includes any name or particulars likely to lead to the identification of any of the following persons:

  • “(a) a party to the proceedings:

  • “(b) an applicant in the proceedings:

  • “(c) a person who is the subject of the proceedings:

  • “(d) a person who is related to, or associated with, a person referred to in paragraphs (a) to (c) or who is, or may be, in any other way concerned in the matter to which the proceedings relate (for example, a support person for a party).

  “(2) For the purposes of section 11B in relation to proceedings under the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989, identifying information also includes the name or particulars likely to lead to the identification of any school that a person the subject of the proceedings is or was attending.

“11D Meaning of child

• For the purposes of section 11B, child means,—

  • “(a) if the Act under which the proceedings are brought defines child, then child has that meaning; or

  • “(b) if the Act under which the proceedings are brought does not define child, then child means a person under the age of 20 years.

“11E Meaning of vulnerable person

• For the purposes of section 11B, vulnerable person means any person who—

  • “(a) is subject to a property order made under any of sections 10, 11, 12, 30, and 31 of the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988, or whose property is managed by a trustee corporation under section 32 of that Act:

  • “(b) is a patient or restricted patient within the meaning of the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992:

  • “(c) is the subject of an application for a declaration under section 28 of the Births, Deaths, and Marriages Registration Act 1995:

  • “(d) for any other reason (for example, because of domestic violence) is considered by the Court likely to be particularly susceptible to any adverse consequences associated with the publication of a report of the proceedings that contains identifying information.

“11D Meaning of vulnerable person

• For the purposes of section 11B, vulnerable person means—

  • “(a) a person in respect of whom a Family Court has jurisdiction under Part 1 or 3 of the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988:

  • “(b) a person in respect of whom a personal order has been made under the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988:

  • “(c) a person subject to a property order under the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988:

  • “(d) a donor of an enduring power of attorney who is involved in proceedings under Part 9 of the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988:

  • “(e) a person who is a proposed patient, patient, or restricted patient within the meaning of the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992:

  • “(f) a person who has applied to a Family Court for the issue of a declaration under section 28 of the Births, Deaths, and Marriages Registration Act 1995:

  • “(g) a person who is a proposed care recipient or care receipient within the meaning of the Intellectual Disability (Compulsory Care and Rehabilitation) Act 2003:

  • “(h) a person who has applied for a protection order under the Domestic Violence Act 1995, or in respect of whom a protection order has been made under that Act:

  • “(i) a person who the Court considers likely for any other reason to be particularly susceptible to any adverse consequences associated with the publication of a report of the proceedings that contains identifying information.”

“16B Regulations

• “(1) The Governor-General may, from time to time, by Order in Council, make regulations for all or any of the following purposes:

  • “(a) prescribing fees payable in respect of proceedings, or intended proceedings, in a Family Court:

  • “(b) in order to promote access to justice, empowering Registrars or Deputy Registrars of Family Courts to waive, reduce, or postpone the payment of a fee required in connection with a proceeding or an intended proceeding, or to refund, in whole or in part, such a fee that has already been paid, if satisfied on the basis of criteria specified under paragraph (c) that—

    • “(i) the person otherwise responsible for payment of the fee is unable to pay or absorb the fee in whole or in part; or

    • “(ii) unless one or more of those powers are exercised in respect of a proceeding that concerns a matter of genuine public interest, the proceeding is unlikely to be commenced or continued:

  • “(c) prescribing, for the purposes of the exercise of a power under paragraph (b), the criteria—

    • “(i) for assessing a person’s ability to pay a fee; and

    • “(ii) for identifying proceedings that concern matters of genuine public interest:

  • “(d) empowering Registrars or Deputy Registrars of Family Courts to postpone the payment of a fee pending the determination of—

    • “(i) an application for the exercise of a power specified in paragraph (b); or

    • “(ii) an application for review under section 16C:

  • “(e) providing for the postponement of the payment of a fee, including (without limitation) providing—

    • “(i) for the recovery of the fee after the expiry of the period of postponement; and

    • “(ii) for restrictions to apply (after the expiry of the period of postponement and so long as the fee remains unpaid) on the steps that may be taken in the proceedings in respect of which the fee is payable:

  • “(f) providing for the manner in which an application for the exercise of a power specified in paragraph (b) or (d) or paragraph (d) is to be made, including, without limitation, requiring such an application to be in a form approved for the purpose by the chief executive of the Ministry of Justice.

  “(2) No fee is payable for an application for the exercise of a power specified in subsection (1)(b) or (d).

“16C Reviews of decisions of Registrars concerning fees

• “(1) Any person who is aggrieved by a decision of a Registrar or Deputy Registrar under regulations made under section 16B(1)(b) may apply to a Family Court Judge for a review of that decision.

  “(2) An application under subsection (1) may be made within—

  • “(a) 20 working days after the date on which the applicant is notified of the decision of the Registrar or Deputy Registrar; or

  • “(b) any further time that the Judge allows on application made for that purpose either before or after the expiration of that period.

  “(3) The application may be made informally.

  “(4) The review—

  • “(a) must be conducted by rehearing; and

  • “(b) may be dealt with on the papers, unless the Judge decides otherwise.

  “(5) The Judge may confirm, modify, or reverse the decision.

  “(6) No fee is payable for an application under this section.”

“mediator means—

• “(a) a person nominated by a Family Court from a list of mediators prepared by an officer of the Family Court appointed under section 8(2) of the Family Courts Act 1980:

• “(b) a mediator appointed pursuant to the Family Courts Act 1980”.

• “(iii) the applicant or the respondent have attended mediation before a mediator with or without a request under section 12C having been made; or”.

“11 Reference to counsellor

• A counsellor to whom a matter is referred under section 9, 10, 12C(3), or 19 must—

  • “(a) arrange to meet either or both of the parties spouses or civil union partners or de facto partners (the parties) at such times and places (including the home of either party) as the counsellor thinks fit for the purposes of counselling; or

  • “(b) by letter sent by post, request either or both of the parties to attend before the counsellor at a specified time and place for the purposes of counselling.”

“12 Duties on of counsellors

• “(1) A counsellor to whom a matter is referred under section 9, 10, 12C(3), or 19—

  • “(a) must explore the possibility of reconciliation between the parties; and

  • “(b) if reconciliation does not appear to be possible, must attempt to promote conciliation between the parties.

  “(2) After carrying out his or her obligations under subsection (1), a the counsellor must provide a report to the Registrar stating—

  • “(a) whether the parties wish to resume or continue the marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship; and

  • “(b) if the parties do not wish to resume or continue the marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship and there is a matter in issue between them, whether that issue has been resolved.

  “(3) A report provided under subsection (2) may also state any of the following:

  • “(a) details of the understandings reached between the parties:

  • “(b) details of the matters remaining in issue between the parties:

  • “(c) a recommendation as to the next step or steps to be taken by the parties.

  “(4) The Registrar must give a copy of the counsellor’s report to each party or to each party’s barrister or solicitor.

  “(5) A recommendation made by a counsellor under subsection (3)(c) is not binding on the parties or on the Court.”

“12A Number of sessions of counselling

• The number of sessions of counselling to be carried out pursuant to section 9, 10, 12C(3), or 19 must be determined in accordance with such regulations as may be made under this Act or, if no regulations apply, by the Registrar or the Court.

“12B Counselling fees and expenses

• Fees in respect of counselling services carried out pursuant to section 9, 10, 12C(3), or 19, and reasonable expenses incurred,—

  • “(a) may be determined in accordance with regulations made under this Act; and

  • “(b) are payable out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.”

“Mediation

“12C Requests for mediation

• “(1) Either party to a marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship may request a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange mediation in respect of any matter arising in relation to the marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship.

  “(2) Where a request has been made to a Registrar under subsection (1), the Registrar may, on the completion by the person making the request of on the prescribed form, arrange for the matter to be referred to a mediator.

  “(3) Where a request has been made to a Registrar under subsection (1), the Registrar may, instead of arranging for the matter to be referred to a mediator, arrange for the matter to be referred to a counsellor, if the Registrar considers, having regard to all of the circumstances, that a the referral of the matter to a counsellor is more appropriate.

“12D Mediation where proceedings commenced

• “(1) On the filing of an application for a separation order under section 20, a Registrar of a Family Court may, if he or she thinks it expedient to do so, arrange for the matter to be referred to a mediator.

  “(2) On an application under section 67 for a maintenance order or an application under section 48 of the Care of Children Act 2004 for a parenting order, a Family Court Judge may, if he or she thinks it expedient to do so, and without limiting his or her power to make an interim maintenance order, direct a Registrar of a Family Court to arrange for the matter to be referred to a mediator, and on receipt of a direction under this subsection, the Registrar must refer the matter accordingly.

  “(3) If, not less than 28 42 days after the date on which the Registrar has arranged for the matter to be referred to a mediator under subsection (1) or subsection (2), either the applicant or respondent party to the marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship requests that the hearing should proceed, the hearing must be commenced or resumed unless the Court otherwise directs.

  “(4) Nothing in subsection (4) (3) prevents the commencement or resumption of the hearing before the expiration of the period of 28 42 days if the Court, upon application made to it, so directs.

“12E Reference to mediator

• “(1) A mediator to whom a matter is referred under section 12C, 12D, or 19 must—

  • “(a) arrange to meet both of the parties spouses or civil union partners or de facto partners (the parties), at such times and places (including the home of either party) as the mediator thinks fit for the purposes of mediation; or

  • “(b) by letter sent by post, request both of the parties to attend before the mediator at a specified time and place for the purposes of mediation.

  “(2) Prior to the mediation, the mediator may meet with one of the parties, or both of the parties separately, if the mediator considers a meeting would enable him or her to do any or all of the following:

  • “(a) assess whether mediation is appropriate:

  • “(b) clarify the main issues between the parties:

  • “(c) determine with the parties—

    • “(i) who should attend the mediation:

    • “(ii) how the mediation should proceed:

  • “(d) gather any further information that may be relevant to the conduct of the mediation.

“12F Duties on of mediators

• “(1) A mediator to whom a matter is referred under section 12C, 12D, or 19 must make every endeavour to—

  • “(a) identify the matters in issue between the parties; and

  • “(b) facilitate negotiations between the parties in respect of those matters; and

  • “(c) assist the parties in reaching to reach agreement on the resolution of those matters.

  “(2) After carrying out his or her obligations under subsection (1), a the mediator must provide a report to the Registrar stating—

  • “(a) whether the parties wish to resume or continue the marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship; and

  • “(b) if the parties do not wish to resume or continue the marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship, and there is a matter in issue between them, whether that issue has been resolved.

  “(3) A report provided under subsection (2) may also state any of the following:

  • “(a) details of the resolution reached between the parties:

  • “(b) details of the matters on which resolution has not been reached between the parties:

  • “(c) a recommendation as to the next step or steps to be taken by the parties.

  “(4) The Registrar must give a copy of the mediator’s report to each party or to each party’s barrister or solicitor.

  “(5) A recommendation made by a mediator under subsection (3)(c) is not binding on the parties or on the Court.

“12G Mediation must be held in private

• The only persons who may attend a mediation before a mediator are as follows:

  • “(a) the parties to the mediation; and

  • “(b) lawyers a barrister or solicitor representing the parties a party to the mediation, if the mediator considers that in all the circumstances attendance by lawyers a barrister or solicitor is appropriate; and

  • “(c) a lawyer appointed to act for a child, if the role of providing for the day-to-day care for, or contact with, the child is in issue at the mediation; and

  • “(d) a child who is the subject of the matter in issue between the parties, if the mediator agrees; and

  • “(e) a person whom the mediator agrees may attend as a support person for a party, if the party requests.

“12H Mediation may be adjourned

• The mediator may from time to time adjourn the mediation.

“12I Duration of mediation

• The duration of mediation to be carried out under section 12C, 12D, or 19 must be determined in accordance with such regulations as may be made under this Act or, if no regulations apply, by the Registrar or the Court.

“12J Mediation fees and expenses

• Fees in respect of mediation carried out under section 12C, 12D, or 19, and reasonable expenses incurred,—

  • “(a) may be determined in accordance with regulations made under this Act; and

  • “(b) are payable out of public money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose.”