Mediation services in Adelaide & beyond
Conflict is stressful enough without a legal process that drags on for months and costs more than it needs to. Mediation offers a different way through - one where you stay in control of the outcome, instead of handing that decision to a judge.
I'm Jody Fitzgerald, an independent, nationally accredited mediator and registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP), based in Adelaide. I work with individuals, families, and organisations to resolve disputes calmly, fairly, and privately - without the cost, delay, or adversarial pressure of court. I meet clients in person across South Australia, travel interstate for in-person mediation where it's needed, and offer video conference sessions for clients anywhere in Australia.
Don’t Race to Court. Choose a Different Path.
Who mediation is for
Mediation can help whether you're navigating a family separation, a disagreement over property or finances, a workplace conflict, a commercial dispute, or questions around an estate or elder care arrangement. If two or more parties need to reach a workable agreement and want to avoid escalating things further, mediation is worth considering before any other step.
How it works
Mediation is a structured but flexible conversation, guided by an independent third party - me - who doesn't take sides and doesn't make decisions for you. Typically, that means:
1. An initial conversation to understand your situation and confirm mediation is the right fit.
2. One or more mediation sessions - in person in Adelaide, elsewhere in South Australia, or interstate by arrangement, or by video call from anywhere in the country - where each person is heard and options are explored.
3. A clear, practical agreement that reflects what both parties actually agreed to - not what a court imposed.
Most matters are resolved in far less time, and at a fraction of the cost, of a court process.
What to expect
You don't need to have "the right words" or a legal background to take part. My role is to keep the conversation fair, focused, and moving forward, and to make sure all sides feel heard in a confidential space.
Why work with an independent, accredited mediator
As an independent practitioner - not attached to any party or to a law firm - I have no stake in the outcome beyond helping you reach one that works. I'm an AMDRAS accredited mediator, and am a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP), which means I can issue the s60i certificate required before most family law parenting matters can proceed to court.