The businesses of Bayside have a beautiful way of crystallising in a single, unexpected moment, and for Dianne from @baysidemediation that moment came sitting alongside a friend in a mediation session — and everything clicked. What followed was an 18-month qualification, a bold decision to go independent, and the building of something truly unique: the only full-time private Family Dispute Resolution practice in the country, helping families find resolution without the devastating cost of going to court
How long have you been in business?
Since 2013.
What inspired you to start?
In my mid-30s, I completed a psychology degree but never pursued a clinical pathway. And later, during some postgraduate study, I realised traditional counselling wasn’t for me either. A friend had asked me to support her during a mediation session, and it was a lightbulb moment—I instantly knew this was the space I wanted to work in. I went on to complete the 18-month qualification to become a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP). During my supervised placement with a government-funded service, I quickly realised I wanted to work independently—and today, I have three full-time associates working within my practice.
What is the magic that sets you apart?
To my knowledge, we’re the only full-time private FDR practice in the country! Most FDRPs offer mediation alongside another profession—often as counsellors or lawyers. For us, this is our core business and specialty.
What does a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner do?
Mediation is a compulsory step in most family law matters. As FDR practitioners, we offer a legal alternative to using lawyers during separation—supporting both parenting and financial agreements. We’re trained in family law, which allows us to guide clients through their rights and responsibilities while helping them reach practical, fair agreements—without the emotional and financial toll of going to court.
Are there any local Bayside gem’s you wouldike to shout out?
@hollyandberry_ (Rent your Xmas tree – how sustainable!) and Highett Lawyer – Vivien Mavropoulos (vivienmavropoulos.au)
Let’s support local! If you love businesses like @baysidemediation, give them a follow and spread the word if you know someone who could use their help.