Family mediation cases rise as new system takes effect

Macau’s family mediation framework will officially take effect in 2026, with early data showing a growing demand for related services, according to the Social Welfare Bureau.

As of the end of May, the bureau received nearly 350 inquiries and recorded 170 cases applying for mediation. Of these, 104 cases have already completed the family mediation process. Most applicants were aged between 30 and 59, with cases mainly involving divorce litigation, custody arrangements, child support payments, and disputes over family housing.

The Women’s General Association of Macau’s Integrated Family Service Centre said divorce remains the most common reason for consultation.

Social worker Ng Chi Lin noted that when cases fall under the Family Mediation System, staff explain the relevant legal procedures and required documentation to service users, as cited in a TDM report.

She added that some users believe the more flexible working hours of association-based social workers make them more suitable for handling family mediation cases.

The association’s Standing Committee member Kwai Siu Ping said public demand for consultation services related to family disputes and divorce has increased noticeably, supported by government and community outreach efforts.

She noted that the association received about 20% more related inquiries from January to May this year compared with the same period last year. Kwai also pointed out that Macau’s first batch of 46 trained family mediators, all with prior experience in family services, remains insufficient to meet growing demand.

She welcomed the government’s plan to launch a second round of mediator training in the third quarter, expressing hope that more social workers from community organizations will be able to participate in the programme to strengthen capacity.