After more than 30 years working as a mediator, Tula Hewitt has seen just about every conflict scenario imaginable. From court-ordered matters to complex family disputes, her career with the Department of Justice had given her deep experience supporting people through some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
But when the opportunity arose to start her own solo Family Dispute Resolution practice, Tula knew experience alone was not enough. The regulatory landscape was shifting. And she wanted to be absolutely confident that her work was compliant, current and centred on the best outcomes for children and families.
That decision led her to postgraduate study, where her dedication was recognised with the award for Best Graduating Student in Family Dispute Resolution.
A career built on care and connection
Tula has built up a career as a mediator with the Department of Justice since 1995, adding to her experience across workplace, civil, child protection, court-ordered PGB, QCAT and Family and Adult Guardian matters.
“I love working with separating individuals to help them create a safe and resilient future for their children,” she says. “Being able to support families in a space that is less daunting than the full court process is something I am deeply passionate about.”
After decades of service, Tula felt drawn to work more privately with clients in Family Law situations. But with the recent Attorney General changes, she recognised the importance of formal qualifications to support that next step.
Choosing postgraduate study to stay current and compliant
Tula enrolled in the Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution Practice to ensure she could continue working with clients at the highest professional standard.
“To keep current with recent Attorney General changes, I decided to do further study to allow me to better support clients in an area where people need help communicating about sensitive issues while still moving their separation forward.”
“This study allows me to provide S601 certificates,” she reflects. “It also provides me with professional liability as a solo mediator.”
For someone with extensive experience, study also offered something unexpected. A chance to step back and reassess her skill set with fresh eyes.
“I feel like I had a full skills audit,” Tula says. “The program has given me new skills and knowledge to add to my box of tricks that will be long lasting.”
Her commitment was reflected in her academic achievement as Best Graduating Student in Family Dispute Resolution, an award sponsored in partnership with Barry Nilsson.
Learning that translates directly into practice
What stood out most for Tula was the applied nature of the course. The teaching was practical, grounded in real-world scenarios and delivered by expert practitioners.
“The access to expert lecturers really helped me see how they managed clients in these complex situations,” she says. “The course was very hands on. The roleplays in particular helped cement my skills.”
The structured materials and resources also supported Tula in deepening her understanding of the legal framework that underpins Family Dispute Resolution.
“I feel like I had all the soft, people skills,” she reflects. “Now I also understand the more complex legal framework and how to help clients navigate through that maze.”
A clearer roadmap for clients
Since graduating, the most significant shift Tula has noticed is in the clarity she brings to her work.
“I’m now able to give clients more realistic and research-informed guidance about what is best for their children,” she says. “I have a thorough roadmap that is clear, current and flexible to help clients through their separation.”
That clarity has also strengthened her ability to support parents from all backgrounds and stages of life, even when emotions are high.
“I feel very confident that I can work with all ages and backgrounds of parents and support them through challenging times with some peace and grace.”
Stepping into solo practice with confidence
Equipped with her formal FDRP qualification and decades of experience, Tula has now opened her own solo practice in Cairns, where she is focused on building strong relationships within the local community.
“After working with local government and legal professionals over the years, I feel confident extending my reach,” she says. “My experience is now supported by formal qualifications. I believe I’m in the best place to provide an excellent service to clients in their time of need.”
Advice for those considering postgraduate study
For practitioners who are unsure whether postgraduate study is worth the commitment, Tula’s advice is simple.
“Give it a go,” she says. “The College works with your timeframe and the assignments are manageable. There’s also good support to get through your study in a timely manner.”
She also emphasises the importance of practical learning for those working in mediation.
“This course is very hands on, which is exactly what you need to be a good mediator. It takes discipline, but the tools are all there. If Family Dispute Resolution is an area you’re interested in, jump in!”
Interested in completing your Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner qualifications at the College like Tula? Achieve your professional best with Australia’s #1 provider of practice-focused FDRP programs.
