Family Lawyers in Wollongong

Family Lawyers across the Illawarra region, based just south of Wollongong in Fairy Meadow.

Family law matters can feel overwhelming.

Separation is one of the hardest things a family goes through.
Our Wollongong family law team, based in Fairy Meadow, gives you clear advice from the first appointment so you know where you stand and what comes next.

We help people across Wollongong and the Illawarra, from the northern suburbs to Dapto, the Shellharbour area down to Kiama.

Wollongong

Shop 30, 51-59 Princes Highway, Fairy Meadow NSW 2519

(02) 4263 5252

Wollongong Partner Holly Gunn.

  • Separation and Divorce  

  • Parenting arrangements and Parenting orders  

  • Property and financial settlements including Super

  • Financial agreements (before, during or after a relationship)

  • Child support  

  • Spousal maintenance  

  • De façto and same sex relationships

  • Family violence and protection orders  

  • Mediation and 6OI certificates

  • Consent orders & legally binding agreements

  • Court representation  

  • Surrogacy and donor agreements  

  • Adoption 

How we can help:

“If you need advice or support with a family law matter, contact our team to arrange a consultation.”

  • We take a clear and considered approach to family law matters. 
    From your first appointment, you will have a clear understanding of your options and what comes next. Our focus is on practical outcomes, while ensuring you feel supported throughout the process. 

  • Every matter is different. Some can be resolved through discussion and agreement, while others may require court proceedings. 
    We will guide you through each step, explaining your options clearly and supporting you in making informed decisions. 

Your Wollongong Family Law team

Holly Gunn, Partner.

Holly has practiced Family Law since 2010 and is a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner. She works with clients across Wollongong on parenting, property and mediation matters.

Hayley Kelloway, Senior Associate.

Hayley advises on family law and is also a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner who can issue Section 6OI certificates. Before joining HCC Lawyers in Wollongong Hayley lectured in law at the University of Wollongong.

MEDIATION IN WOLLONGONG

Many family matters can be settled without going to court. Holly and Hayley both run mediations at our Fairy Meadow office, online or by phone. They can mediate for you without lawyers or as part of a lawyer-assisted process. If an agreement is reached, we can turn it into a parenting plan or consent orders. If you need to go to court over parenting, they can issue the Section 60I certificate you'll usually need first.

Mediation isn't right for every family, especially where there has been family violence. We check this carefully and your safety always comes first.

What happens at your first appointment?

  1. You tell us what’s happening - We listen and ask questions so we understand your situation and what matters most.

  2. We explain your options - You’ll get plain-english advice on the law, the likely steps and the choices in front of you.

  3. You get a clear path - We agree on the next steps, the documents and list of questions.

Bring any court papers, agreements, financial documents and a list of the questions that you have. If you’re not sure what to bring please reach out by phone or email to our team ahead of your scheduled Mediation session.

  • Important Information

    A Section 60I Certificate is generally required before commencing court proceedings in parenting matters, unless an exemption applies. Mediation is not suitable in all matters, particularly where there are safety concerns. Suitability is assessed throughout the process. 

    If an agreement is reached, it can be documented in a Parenting Plan or formalised as Consent Orders, depending on your circumstances. If no agreement is reached, further mediation or legal options may be considered. 

  • Costs

    The cost of mediation depends on the type and length of the session. 

    Options may include intake sessions, half day and full day mediations. Our team can talk you through the available options and help you choose what is most suitable. .

Our FAQ.

Clarity Backed by Experience.

  • The mediation process begins with an intake stage, where each party provides background information and the mediator assesses whether mediation is appropriate. 

    Once both parties have completed intake, invitations are issued and a suitable format and time for mediation is arranged. 

    Mediation may take place in person, online or via telephone, and can include private sessions where required. 

    If an agreement is reached, guidance is provided on how to document the outcome. If not, further steps are discussed. 

  • In family law matters, parties are generally required to attempt dispute resolution before commencing court proceedings, unless an exemption applies. 

    A Section 60I Certificate confirms that mediation has been attempted or considered and is typically required when applying to the Court for parenting orders. 

  • Agreements reached in mediation can be documented in a Parenting Plan or formalised as Consent Orders. 

    Consent Orders are legally binding and approved by the Court, while Parenting Plans are more flexible but not legally enforceable. 

    For financial matters, agreements may also be formalised through a Binding Financial Agreement or Consent Orders. 

  • If an agreement is not reached, parties may choose to attend further mediation sessions or consider other legal options. 

    In some cases, mediation occurs over multiple sessions, particularly where matters are complex or arrangements need to evolve over time. 

Talk to our Wollongong Family Law Team

BOOK A CONSULT

Shop 30, 51-59 Princes Highway, Fairy Meadow NSW 2519
Phone: (02) 4263 5252 | Email: reception@hcclawyers.com.au