What is mediation? Mediation is a structured conversation guided by an independent, neutral third party — a mediator — who helps you and the other party (or parties) work through a disagreement and reach an outcome you both actually agree to, rather than one handed down by a judge.

How much does mediation cost? Family mediation is $900 + GST per party, covering your individual intake and up to 4 hours of joint mediation. If a joint session doesn’t proceed — for example, the other party won't engage — a $400 + GST intake-and-assessment-only option is available, which can also result in a Section 60I Certificate being issued. Commercial and elder mediation start at $800 + GST per party for a half-day.

Is mediation legally binding? Mediation itself is voluntary, but what you agree to can be formalised into something binding — consent orders for family and parenting matters, or a written agreement reviewed by a lawyer for commercial, property or workplace matters.

Do I have to go to mediation before I can go to court? For parenting matters, in most cases yes — you're generally required to make a genuine effort at family dispute resolution and obtain a Section 60I Certificate before filing. There are exceptions, including family violence or urgency. For other disputes, mediation isn't usually mandatory, but it's often the faster and cheaper route to try first.

What if the other party won't take part, or doesn't show up? It happens. If someone won't engage at all, we can usually still document that a genuine attempt was made (important for the Section 60I certificate in family matters), and you're free to pursue other options from there. For other matters, a written invitation to mediate — and a refusal on record — can matter in a costs application later on.

What happens if we can't reach an agreement? That's not a failure — you're free to pursue other options afterwards, including court. Often a partial agreement is reached, which narrows down what actually still needs resolving elsewhere and can reduce time and cost overall.

Do I need a lawyer to take part in mediation? No — mediation doesn't require legal representation. I do encourage independent legal advice at some point in the process, so you're confident in what you're agreeing to, and you're welcome to bring your lawyer or business adviser into the session with you if that's useful.

Can mediation handle disputes with more than two parties — like between business partners or shareholders? Yes. Multi-party matters — shareholder and partnership breakdowns, disputes involving several family members in an elder care or estate matter — are something I regularly mediate; the process just allows more time and structure for everyone to be heard.

Is mediation confidential? Yes. What's discussed generally can't be used as evidence in later court proceedings, with limited exceptions such as threats of harm. Parties will sign a Mediation Agreement before commencing the process which includes a confidentiality clause.

How long does mediation take? Most matters resolve in one to a few sessions, often within weeks rather than the months or years a court process can take.

Do you mediate matters outside Adelaide? Yes — in person across Adelaide and South Australia, and by video conference Australia-wide.

What types of disputes can you help with? Family and parenting matters, property and financial separation, workplace conflicts, commercial and small business disputes, and estate or elder care disagreements.