AFSA-Qualified Practitioners
Three accredited mediators and one accredited arbitrator with recognised professional qualifications.
Resolve Disputes Without Going to Court
Court proceedings aren't always the quickest or most effective way to resolve a dispute. Our accredited mediators and arbitrator help parties reach practical solutions through confidential mediation and binding arbitration, providing faster, more flexible alternatives to traditional litigation where appropriate.
30+ Years of legal experience 3 AFSA-Qualified Mediators 1 AFSA-Qualified Arbitrator 98% Approval Rating on Google
Why Choose Mediation?
A faster, more flexible way to resolve disputes
Alternative dispute resolution allows parties to resolve many disputes without the delays, publicity, and costs often associated with court proceedings.
Mediation and arbitration have become increasingly popular for resolving commercial, property, family, and community scheme disputes. While both processes take place outside the courtroom, they serve different purposes and are suited to different types of matters.
Our team includes three AFSA-qualified mediators and one AFSA-qualified arbitrator, providing clients with experienced practitioners who understand both the legal issues involved and the practical realities of dispute resolution. Whether your goal is preserving an ongoing business relationship, resolving a family dispute, or obtaining a final and binding decision, we'll help you choose the process that best suits your circumstances.
Why Clients Choose Us
Experienced dispute resolution with accredited professionals
Our alternative dispute resolution services are designed to help clients resolve disputes efficiently while avoiding unnecessary litigation wherever possible.
Confidential Proceedings
Unlike court litigation, mediation and arbitration are private processes that protect sensitive personal and commercial information.
Faster Resolution
Alternative dispute resolution often reaches a conclusion significantly sooner than traditional court proceedings.
Cost-Effective Solutions
Reducing lengthy litigation can save considerable legal costs and management time.
Flexible Process
Proceedings can often be scheduled around the parties' availability rather than waiting for court dates.
Relationship Preservation
Mediation encourages constructive dialogue, making it particularly effective where ongoing personal or commercial relationships are important.
Understanding ADR
Choosing the right dispute resolution process
Although mediation and arbitration are often grouped together, they serve different purposes. Understanding the distinction helps parties choose the most appropriate approach for resolving their dispute.
- What is Mediation?: Mediation is a voluntary process in which an independent mediator helps parties negotiate a mutually acceptable solution. The mediator facilitates discussion but does not make a decision or impose an outcome.
- When is Mediation Appropriate?: Mediation is particularly effective where parties wish to preserve an ongoing relationship, including business partnerships, family matters, community scheme disputes, neighbourhood disputes, and commercial disagreements.
- Is Mediation Confidential?: Yes. Mediation is conducted privately, allowing parties to explore settlement options openly without creating a public court record.
- What is Arbitration?: Arbitration is a private legal process in which an independent arbitrator hears evidence and makes a binding decision that can generally be enforced in the same way as a court judgment.
- When is Arbitration Appropriate?: Arbitration is commonly used where contracts contain arbitration clauses, or where parties want a final determination without proceeding through the court system.
- Is an Arbitration Award Binding?: Yes. Arbitration awards are legally binding and enforceable, subject to the limited grounds for review provided by law.
- Mediation or Arbitration?: The right process depends on your objectives. If parties are willing to negotiate and preserve an ongoing relationship, mediation is often the preferred option. Where a binding decision is required, arbitration may provide a faster and more efficient alternative to litigation.
FAQs
Answers to common mediation and arbitration questions
Understanding how alternative dispute resolution works helps you choose the best approach for resolving your dispute.
What's the difference between mediation and arbitration?
Mediation helps parties negotiate their own settlement with the assistance of an independent mediator. Arbitration is a formal process where an independent arbitrator hears the matter and delivers a binding decision.
Is mediation legally binding?
The mediation process itself is voluntary, but once the parties sign a settlement agreement, that agreement becomes legally binding.
Is an arbitration award legally binding?
Yes. Arbitration awards are legally binding and may generally be enforced through the courts in the same manner as a court judgment.
Why should I choose mediation instead of litigation?
Mediation is usually quicker, more cost-effective, confidential, and better suited to preserving ongoing business or personal relationships.
What kinds of disputes are suitable for mediation?
Commercial disputes, family matters, divorce disputes, community scheme matters, neighbour disputes, partnership disagreements, and many contractual disputes can all be suitable for mediation.
What kinds of disputes are suitable for arbitration?
Arbitration is commonly used for commercial disputes, contractual disputes, property matters, and situations where parties require a final, binding determination without court proceedings.
Can the same person act as both mediator and arbitrator?
Generally not in the same dispute. If mediation is unsuccessful, a different practitioner is usually appointed as arbitrator to maintain impartiality and independence.
Why does AFSA accreditation matter?
AFSA accreditation demonstrates that a practitioner has met recognised standards of training, experience, ethics, and ongoing professional development in mediation or arbitration.
Speak to an ADR Specialist
Looking for a faster way to resolve your dispute?
Whether you're considering mediation, require arbitration, or simply want advice on the most appropriate dispute resolution process, our accredited practitioners are here to help. Complete the enquiry form below and we'll discuss the best path forward for your matter.