Assistance is available for families at all stages of their relationship cycles, to achieve and maintain positive relationships, whether the family resides together or not.

The Family Relationship Centres were opened in response to new family law legislation (Family Law Shared Parental Responsibility Amendment Act) introduced by the Commonwealth Government in 2006.

This new model emphasises collaboration and equal responsibility in decision making between former partners in the care of their children. There are 65 FRCs throughout Australia.

The Frankston FRC, run by Family Life, offers family dispute resolution (mediation), usually with the goal of developing a workable parenting plan without going to court. The staff also offer counselling for individuals, families and children, men's programs and relationship education groups.

"The Frankston Family Relationship Centre has been embraced by clients and the local community." Professor Thea Brown. Department of Social Work Monash University Victoria

Quotes from mums and dads who used the service:

"We were able to undertake mediation and resolve our differences quite easily: we did not have many problems, but then we had not been able to do ir on our own............I wonder why?"

"...a new approach.....that of listening"

"She didn't do what she promised in the mediation, but I was able to work on that and we are keeping to our plans now."

"I feel stronger within myself now. I know I will cope."