We are excited to announce an extraordinary opportunity for members of the Mediation Institute community. In partnership with Mediators Beyond Borders Oceania (MBBO), we invite you to join us on a remarkable 11-day Pacific Island Cruise aboard the luxurious Princess Cruise Line’s Crown Princess. This unique journey offers not just a relaxing getaway but also the chance to complete your Advanced Mediator Practicum (AMDRAS) or gain Professional Development along the way.
Itinerary Highlights:
- Dates: Departing Brisbane on January 22, 2026, and returning February 2, 2026.
- Port Visits: Noumea, Lifou, Port Vila, Luganville, and Mystery Island.
- Training Sessions: Conducted on five dedicated “at-sea” days, structured to meet the 12-hour AMDRAS Practicum Requirements.
- Networking Opportunities: Evening MBBO networking events will be held at each port, providing enriching interactions and cultural insights.
Professional Development and Community Contribution:
We will be offering two streams of CPD one for people eligible for the AMDRAS Practicum and one for those who are not eligible or have already completed the Practicum.
Practicum Option: The Practicum Training component will be $1,800 ($1,600 for Mediation Institute Members)
Professional Development Option: The training component for those not completing the Practicum will be $500 and cover a minimum of 6 hours of CPD and a Training Cost $500. There is no additional cost over the cruise fee for partners sharing a room with a trainee. As the cruise fills up costs of the cruise rise so it is difficult to specify the current cost of the cruise. Also there are many different room types available – inside, window, balcony and suites and there may be categories that provide spa services to partners while you are focussing on your professional development.
Cultural Excursions: The intention is to liaise with local mediators and peace makers to organise local cultural exchange excursions. Details to be confirmed.
NOTE: The Training Fee does not include the cruise fare. The cruise fare, which will vary depending on accommodation level you choose. You will be able to book through our official travel agent.
Tax Deductibility: An invoice for the cruise and training will be provided, potentially making this trip tax-deductible. Please consult your tax advisor to confirm eligibility based on your individual circumstances.
Reserve Your Spot: We officially launch this exclusive offering at the National Mediation Conference in Sydney this September. Spaces are limited, so express your interest early by contacting Paul Kenna Law at paul.kenna.law@mediationinstitute.edu.au or by phone at 0413 825 479.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard for this unique journey of learning, networking, and exploration!
Why a Cruise for Mediation Training?
Mediation Institute is a corporate member of Mediators Beyond Borders Oceania and MBBO is dedicated to fostering harmony among diverse communities throughout Oceania, a region known for its cultural richness and peaceful coexistence.
What better way to deepen our understanding of mediation practices within Pacific cultures than to immerse ourselves directly within these communities?
Profits from the training fees will directly support MBBO’s valuable community work.
Trainer Information
Joanne Law is an experienced dispute resolution practitioner and trainer. She is the Director of Mediation Institute and is currently serving as Secretary of the AMDRAS Board and Secretary of the Mediators Beyond Borders Oceania Board.
She’s been nationally accredited as a mediator since 2013 and has over a decade of expertise in delivering high-quality mediation training, coaching, and assessment.
Joanne holds qualifications in mediation, education, business, coaching and leadership, and was among the early adopters of online and blended training in the Australian mediation sector. She is nationally accredited under AMDRAS and holds FDR Practitioner registration.
Joanne has contributed to the development of standards and professional practice frameworks within the industry, including during the transition from NMAS to AMDRAS Standards for Mediators and a number of professional associations. She is particularly passionate about accessible training, reflective practice, and supporting mediators to build ethical, inclusive, and effective practice.
As the lead trainer for the AMDRAS Practicum Certificate course on the Mediation Practicum Cruise, Joanne is responsible for facilitating advanced skills development, structured feedback sessions, and professional mentoring for eligible participants seeking Advanced Mediator accreditation or to meet the Practicum requirement for Leading Mediator Status.
Joanne’s facilitation style is reflective, supportive, and grounded in real-world practice, providing a unique opportunity for practitioners to refine their skills in an immersive and collegial learning environment.
